Chairman Menendez Condemns Attack in Afghanistan that Resulted in the Loss of Six American Lives

Woman, 25, killed while delivering books to an Afghan school, is the first diplomatic casualty since the war began

NEWARK, N.J. — U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement in reaction to the news that six Americans were killed in an attack in southern Afghanistan.

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of these Americans who sought to help Afghanistan achieve a better future for its people, and particularly by the loss of Anne Smedinghoff – who, from her parents’ words, had such a strong vocation to the work that she was doing in order to make a positive difference in the world,” said Chairman Menendez. “Our civilians, diplomats, and soldiers have been on the front lines of this war for more than a decade.  They continue working tirelessly to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan, in spite of the danger and risks to their own safety. We honor their sacrifices and their service. 

While we grieve for all the families who have lost loved ones in Afghanistan, we know that our thoughts and prayers alone will not provide greater security for Americans working abroad. We must act, as I am committed to act, to provide greater security for our diplomatic corps as one of many ways to ensure that those who gave their lives for American missions in foreign nations have not died in vain.”

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