Wednesday, August 22, 2007

CIA Critiqued for Pre-9/11 Faults

Here we go again. Via Yahoo/AP, the top findings:

  • U.S. spy agencies, which were overseen by Tenet, lacked a
    comprehensive strategic plan to counter Osama bin Laden prior to 9/11.
  • The CIA's analysis of al-Qaida before Sept. 2001 was lacking.
  • The CIA and the National Security Agency tussled over their
    responsibilities in dealing with al-Qaida well into 2001.
  • The CIA station charged with monitoring bin Laden — code-named
    Alec Station — was overworked, lacked operational experience, expertise and
    training.
  • Although 50 to 60 people read at least one CIA cable about two
    of the hijackers, the information wasn't shared with the proper offices and
    agencies.

Luckily, since then the CIA seems to have gotten its act together, as there's been no more attacks. Meanwhile, our legislature has been steadying attempting to sabotage any work Tenet and his successors have put in place to avert another attack, including the Patriot Act, Warrantless Surveillance, and reforming of FISA.

So, how's Congress doing its job, America? Not so good say 76% of you!

Update-Glenn Reynolds declares "Well, Duh"!