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Edited on Sun May-14-06 06:16 PM by LynzM
Got this from Briarius's dad, who wrote Hostettler about detainee treatment. I don't have a scanner or I'd just post a full copy. Here's the text though.
Dear XXXX:
Thank you for contacting my office with your thoughts on the treatment of terrorists. I appreciate this opportunity to respond.
Under the laws of International Armed Conflict, Al-Qaeda members are subject to execution immediately upon capture as they are non-state actors who do not wear a uniform of the armed forces of any nation-state. They are fortunate to still be alive receiving food and shelter at the expense of the American taxpayer - the very people they would want to kill if given the opportunity.
Likewise, as the U.S. became a signatory of the United Nations Convention Against Torture in October of 1994, we are currently obligated to adhere to the proper treatment of enemies of the United States according to that Treaty. The hysteria surrounding the regrettable actions of just a few of our service members is most unfortunate as it detracts from the professionalism of our U.S. military. Laws that place more constraints around the FBI and similar agencies will condition our enemies to know that, after a certain point, our intelligence agencies are not equipped to effectively do their job. If terrorists know that they will not be subjected to effective interrogation methods, they will conclude that they do not have to give us any information.
Again, thank you for contacting me and I look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Sincerely, John N. Hostettler Member of Congress
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