Secret Memo on Intel Sharing with Israel Sparks Outrage
A classified memorandum authorizing expanded intelligence sharing with Israel following the October 7th Hamas attack has ignited a firestorm in Washington. Concerns are mounting that this information may be contributing to a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with mounting civilian casualties.
Sharing Secrets, Mounting Doubts
The crux of the issue lies in the lack of independent oversight. Critics fear the US-supplied intelligence might be used in strikes that disproportionately target civilians and damage vital infrastructure. This secret agreement, unlike overt US weapons sales to Israel, has garnered less public scrutiny. However, it's now under intense scrutiny by Democratic lawmakers and human rights groups.
Mounting Casualties Raise Alarms
The Biden administration itself is wrestling with the ethical implications of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Since the October 7th attacks, which tragically claimed over 1,200 Israeli lives, Israel's response has resulted in the deaths of an estimated 32,000 Gazan residents, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israel counters that Hamas embeds its military infrastructure within civilian areas, leading to unavoidable civilian casualties.
The Fog of War and Civilian Lives Lost
Adding fuel to the fire, Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO), a member of the House Intelligence Committee, revealed inconsistencies between Israeli and US accounts of civilian casualties. He met with both a senior Israeli military figure and US intelligence officials, highlighting the urgent need for transparency.
Unveiling the Intelligence Flow
The intelligence sharing program operates under a White House memorandum issued shortly after the October 7th attack and amended a few days later. Additionally, the US ramped up its own intelligence collection efforts in Gaza, previously reliant on Israeli data. The US intelligence community established guidelines for sharing, but the ultimate responsibility for determining violations rests with the White House.
US Spy Agencies and the Limits of Control
US intelligence agencies primarily aim to locate Hamas leadership, find hostages, and monitor Israeli borders. They provide raw intelligence, like live drone feeds, but not targeting data for ground or air operations. However, concerns remain about how Israel utilizes this information once combined with its own data.
Can We Ensure Responsible Use?
The US requires assurances from Israel that US intelligence won't be used to cause unacceptable civilian casualties or infrastructure damage. However, the burden of proof lies with Israel, raising concerns about effective oversight.
Sharing Responsibly in a Complex World
Sharing intelligence with allies requires a thorough assessment of how the information might be used. The US may seek additional assurances based on whether the potential use aligns with US legal frameworks. "Actionable information leading to lethal consequences can only be shared if the US itself is authorized for the same activity," asserts Douglas London, a retired CIA officer.
A Bipartisan Issue with Differing Approaches
The issue transcends party lines. While House Intelligence Committee Chair Michael Turner (R-OH) emphasizes US caution in sharing Hamas leadership intel and filling intelligence gaps, Sarah Yager of Human Rights Watch criticizes the lack of restrictions, suggesting it opens the "entire US vault."
Can Leverage Be Used for Good?
Lawmakers are urging President Biden to leverage US military aid and other means to pressure Israel into alleviating the dire humanitariansituation in Gaza. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) emphasizes enforcing requests for increased humanitarian aid access. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) advocates for complete Hamas eradication and urges Biden to cease criticizing the Israeli administration.
A Delicate Balance Between Security and Morality
The Biden administration is currently evaluating Israeli assurances regarding US-provided weapons and their adherence to international humanitarian law. The ethical implications of continued support for Israel's military campaign in Gaza remain a pressing concern.
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