Memos Reveal War Crimes Warnings

[Carmerian]

Report by Michael Isikoff
Investigative Correspondent
Newsweek
Complete story here

"May 17 The White House's top lawyer warned more than two years ago that U.S. officials could be prosecuted for "war crimes" as a result of new and unorthodox measures used by the Bush administration in the war on terrorism, according to an internal White House memo and interviews with participants in the debate over the issue.

"The concern about possible future prosecution for war crimes--and that it might even apply to Bush administration officials themselves-- is contained in a crucial portion of an internal January 25, 2002, memo by White House counsel Alberto Gonzales obtained by NEWSWEEK. It urges President George Bush declare the war in Afghanistan, including the detention of Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters, exempt from the provisions of the Geneva Convention.

"...Noting that the law applies to "U.S. officials" and that punishments for violators "include the death penalty," Gonzales told Bush that "it was difficult to predict with confidence" how Justice Department prosecutors might apply the law in the future. "

[nadinbrzezinski]

1. They knew what they were doing

which is the most madening thing... yep Hague will be waiting
for these men and women

[Carmerian]

2. That's not the Hague the article is talking about

It's the possibility of trying him under US law.

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

3. Good, and add conspiracy to that, since they were informed

about the consequences of their actions.

I love it. Just like the Watergate days, something more interesting everyday.


TeeeeeeeHeeeeeeee

[Moderator]

4. Moving to General Discussion...

The article is dated 5/17 - two days ago. As per Late Breaking News forum rules:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x87249

NO news that is more than 12 hours old.

Thanks.