Obama’s Release of Classified CIA Memos Opens Door to Prosecutions
Obama paid his first visit to CIA Headquarters Monday in an effort to show his support for the agency concerned by his recent authorization to release classified CIA documents related to harsh interrogation techniques including waterboarding.
Obama acknowledged the release of the memos has been difficult for the intelligence community. But he told the CIA staff not to be discouraged that they’ve made mistakes.
“I have fought to protect the integrity of classified information in the past and I will do so in the future,” said Mr. Obama. “And there is nothing more important than protecting the identities of CIA officers. So I need everybody to be clear - we will protect your identities and your security as you vigorously pursue your missions.”
During a question and answer session with reporters Tuesday, Obama did not rule out charges against former Bush administration officials who wrote the opinions justifying the “harsh” interrogation techniques.
So much for this being a time for reflection, not retribution…
[...] intelligence director, Dennis Blair, told colleagues in a private memo last week that harsh interrogation tactics did produce “high-value” information leading to a deeper understanding of al [...]