Capitol security increases amid rising tensions with Iran as lawmakers return to session

Authorities nationwide boost counterterror and law enforcement readiness as conflict with Iran deepens and Senate plans to meet Monday afternoon
PUBLISHED 1 HOUR AGO
Security was increased at the Capitol as lawmakers returned to session (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Security was increased at the Capitol as lawmakers returned to session (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)


WASHINGTON, DC: Authorities at the Capitol are stepping up security from Sunday night, March 1, into Monday, March 2, amid concerns over potential threats following US strikes on Iran. Officials say there is no confirmed or specific danger.

The increased security comes as lawmakers return to session. The House will remain out on Monday, while the Senate is scheduled to meet in the afternoon. On the other hand, President Donald Trump promised to "avenge" the deaths of 3 US service members killed as tensions with Iran escalate.

At the same time, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany issued a joint statement condemning Iran for its “indiscriminate and disproportionate” missile attacks on neighboring countries.

Security heightened around the Capitol

After the US carried out strikes on Iran, security around the Capitol was tightened, but officials say they do not plan to put up extra fencing right now.

Questions were raised about installing a large perimeter fence like those used at major events or adding smaller barriers, but authorities say none are currently planned, according to Fox News.

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 18: Troops gather as the US Capitol goes into lockdown due to a threat duri
Troops were deployed around the US Capitol amid heightened security alerts (Rod Lamkey-Pool/Getty Images)

The alert comes after United States Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that over 1,000 Iranian targets were hit within the first 24 hours of 'Operation Epic Fury'. Targets in Iran included command and control centers, ballistic missile sites, and the joint headquarters of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), showing the scale and precision of the strikes.

Trump promises retaliation after US troops are killed

Trump on Sunday promised to avenge the deaths of 3 American service members killed in action, as the conflict with Iran escalates across the Middle East.

In a video statement posted on Truth Social, he paid tribute to the soldiers, saying, "As one nation, we mourn the brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country." He also expressed support for those injured and sent his “love and eternal gratitude” to the families of the fallen. Trump added a warning, noting that “sadly, there will likely be more before it ends."



Meanwhile, the European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urged caution, emphasizing that the events in the Middle East should not escalate further and risk affecting Europe or the world. In a statement on X, she called Iran’s attacks “inexcusable” and assured that the EU is taking steps to protect its citizens in the region.

Kallas also said the EU stands with its partner countries and will keep working through diplomacy to lower tensions and stop Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.

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