Rep. Schiff Praises Administration Announcement of Report of Combatants and Noncombatants Killed in Targeted Lethal Strikes

Statement

Today, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), the Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement:

"A public, annual report on the number of combatants and noncombatants killed will provide an important measure of transparency regarding targeted, lethal strikes. Despite our best efforts to ensure to a near-certainty that no civilians will be killed or injured, sometimes strikes do result in civilian casualties -- and it is important that we acknowledge those accidents and learn from them. At the same time, greater transparency can help narrow the perception gap between what really happens, and what is reported or sent out as propaganda. I also believe that issuing these reports helps set an example for other nations that now or in the future will strike at terrorists from the air.

"For years, I have supported this step, and I'm gratified that the Administration's policy shares many similarities with proposals put forth by Senator Feinstein and me. I do believe, however, there is still value in considering a statutory requirement to make this executive action permanent, ensuring that our commitment to transparency extends beyond the term of the current Administration."

Source