Hagel under fire, defends swap of Taliban prisoners for Bergdahl
- 10 years ago
U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel came under congressional fire Tuesday.
With Republicans furious over how the White House handled the release of Taliban prisoners in exchange for Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY CHUCK HAGEL SAYING:
"We do whatever it takes to recover any U.S. service member held in captivity. This pledge is woven into the fabric of our nation and our military."
But Congress wants answers as to why they weren't informed at least 30 days before the swap -- the lawful time period.
Hagel says exceptional circumstances didn't allow for it:
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY CHUCK HAGEL SAYING:
"As the opportunity to obtain Sergeant Bergdahl's release became clearer, we grew increasingly concerned that any delay, or any leaks, could derail the deal and further endanger Sergeant Bergdahl. We were told by the Qataris that a leak would end the negotiations for Bergdahl's release."
Af
With Republicans furious over how the White House handled the release of Taliban prisoners in exchange for Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY CHUCK HAGEL SAYING:
"We do whatever it takes to recover any U.S. service member held in captivity. This pledge is woven into the fabric of our nation and our military."
But Congress wants answers as to why they weren't informed at least 30 days before the swap -- the lawful time period.
Hagel says exceptional circumstances didn't allow for it:
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY CHUCK HAGEL SAYING:
"As the opportunity to obtain Sergeant Bergdahl's release became clearer, we grew increasingly concerned that any delay, or any leaks, could derail the deal and further endanger Sergeant Bergdahl. We were told by the Qataris that a leak would end the negotiations for Bergdahl's release."
Af