Bush Signs Bill On Interrogation Of Terror Suspects

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The New York Sun

WASHINGTON — President Bush yesterday signed legislation authorizing tough interrogation of terror suspects and smoothing the way for trials before military commissions, calling it a “vital tool” in a time of war.

Mr. Bush’s plan for treatment of the terror suspects became law just six weeks after he acknowledged that the CIA had been secretly interrogating suspected terrorists overseas and then later pressed Congress to quickly give authority to try them in military commissions.

“With the bill I’m about to sign, the men our intelligence officials believe orchestrated the murder of nearly 3,000 innocent people will face justice,” Mr. Bush said.

Among those America hopes to try are Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the accused mastermind of the September 11, 2001, attacks, as well as Ramzi Binalshibh, an alleged would-be September 11 hijacker, and Abu Zubaydah, who was believed to be a link between Osama bin Laden and many Qaeda cells.

“It is a rare occasion when a president can sign a bill that he knows will save American lives,” Mr. Bush said. “I have that privilege this morning.”

Mr. Bush signed the bill in the White House East Room, at a table with a sign positioned on the front that said “Protecting America.” He said he signed it in memory the September 11 victims.


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