Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: Unlawful Release of Muslim Terrorist Leaders Could Endanger U.S. National Security

News Release from Office of Rep Tulsi Gabbard September 9, 2014

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) voted today to pass H. Res. 644 expressing disapproval of the illegal May 31 freeing of five top-level Muslim terrorist leaders from detention at Guantanamo Bay.

Gabbard, a captain in the Army National Guard and veteran of two Middle East tours of duty, said, “Contrary to those who defend the release of these terrorist leaders, recent events in the Middle East make it painfully clear that our war with Muslim extremists is far from over. In fact, they are more powerful and dangerous today than ever.  Assessed in this light, the freeing of five high-level Muslim extremists was short-sighted and further evidence that our leaders have forgotten that we are at war and who the enemy is.  I’m deeply concerned about the very real possibility that we will see one of these released terrorists beheading yet another American on YouTube.  Negotiating with and giving in to the demands of these terrorists has set a very dangerous precedent since it is an established fact that such terrorists specifically targeted the citizens of nations who are willing to negotiate with them. It has put more Americans at risk.”

On August 21, the Government Accountability Office concluded the administration did not follow the law in failing to notify the relevant congressional committees.

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