Investigation into Controversial Report on US Forces' Use of Nerve Gas in Vietnam

Strategic Insights -

Recent reports from CNN and Time magazine have sparked outrage over allegations that US forces used nerve gas to hunt down defectors during the Vietnam War. The reports, which were based on "substantial evidence", have been met with criticism from several quarters, including a retired major general who quit his position as a CNN military analyst in protest. The US Defense Secretary has ordered an investigation into the allegations, and the media outlets involved have announced that they will conduct a thorough examination of the accuracy of the report.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CNN report and accompanying Time magazine article alleged that US forces used nerve gas to hunt down defectors during the Vietnam War.
  • The allegations were based on "substantial evidence" according to Time managing editor Walter Issacson.
  • CNN military analyst Perry Smith, a retired major general, quit his position in protest, calling the report "sleazy journalism".
  • The US Defense Secretary has ordered an investigation into the allegations, despite stating that there is no evidence to support the claim that nerve gas was used in Vietnam.
  • Time magazine has defended its report, citing the evidence on which it was based.

Statistics:

  • 2 weeks ago: CNN originally aired the report on the use of nerve gas in Vietnam.
  • 1 day later: Time magazine published an article based on the CNN report.
  • $211 million - $241 million: the amount the US owes to the UN, which it risks losing its vote in the General Assembly if it does not pay by the end of the year.
  • 59%: the percentage of Americans who think saving for retirement is an individual responsibility.
  • 90%: the percentage of Americans who want the government to provide medical care for retirees who cannot afford it.

Sources:

  • Time Warner
  • CNN
  • Walter Isaacson, Time managing editor ["letter to readers"]
  • Perry Smith, retired major general
  • James P. Hoffa, Teamsters president
  • Ron Carey, incumbent Teamsters president
  • US Department of Defense
  • US General Accounting Office
  • Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Calif., Chairman of the House Appropriations housing subcommittee.