Speculation is continuing apace in the blogs and media over what exactly was depicted on interrogation tapes destroyed by the CIA, with calls for investigations ringing out seemingly from every quarter. Some speculate the tapes would have shown how truly harsh our “harsh interrogation” practices were and that they were destroyed to prevent their use in possible criminal prosecutions. Others wonder if possible revelations of connections to prominent foreign allies were the reason the tapes were destroyed despite multiple warnings that they be retained.

The Bushies for their part have been all over the map with excuses. First they said it was in line with CIA practices, then they said they knew nothing about the tapes existence (as equally an incredulous claim as Bush not knowing the contains of the latest NIE on Iran), and now they’ve seem to have found themselves a scapegoat in the form of a former director of operations. But the idea that a senior CIA official would sanction a restroom break, let alone the destruction of evidence, without authority is so laughable as to be almost not worth putting forth. Then again, passing the laugh test has never been a hindrance to the Bushies before.

I know there are some who are jaded, assuming that once again we will be subjected to endless investigations and inquests that may reveal much but ultimately will result in zero consequences. But on this issue, one which not only has implications on our status in the eyes of the world but also on how Americans may be treated aboard, we really do need to learn just what has been done in our name.

(X-posted at The Xsociate Files)