Though I would normally do this as a series of link posts, this story is important, and I want to make sure that those that read the site by actually coming here see the full set of links.
The CIA has destroyed video tapes that document interrogations of terrorism suspects. These interrogations used the “harsh” interrogation techniques that most reasonable people would call torture. Facing an investigation into these techniques and an possible Democratic White House and veto-proof majority coming in the next year, it seems clear that the CIA destroyed these tapes in order to prevent several things from happening.
First, the tapes would should the techniques we used, laying the CIA and the agents involved at risk for a war crimes trial.
Second, it would shed a harsh light on the quality of the information we’ve received from these suspects. I mean, honestly, if the tapes showed how these interrogations stopped an imminent attack, the White House would’ve used it for the positive press, you can bank on that. It wouldn’t be the first time they’ve used classified counter-terrorism efforts as propaganda.
Anyway, I’m making points others have made better. Consider this the rundown of good posts:
- Torture Tapes | TPMCafe - Article by Larry Johnson, who was in the CIA and State’s Counter Terrorism office until ‘93
- Did someone mention CIA videotapes? - Dana Perino (WH Press Secretary) at Friday’s Press Briefing
- CIA ignored warnings about interrogation videos
- Hamilton sees obstruction
- What the Tapes Would Have Shown - Washington Monthly
Read the first post, and read the Washington Monthly article if you don’t have time to read anything else in the list.
I can’t help but feel powerless here… these people are ignoring the law and are facing no consequences here. It’s ridiculous, but being at least marginally aware of our own history, I know it’s not the first or only time stuff like this has happened. I just wish these people would have to face real consequences for damaging our country like this.