Rumsfeld Apologizes for Abu Ghraib Scandal, Warns of Wider Consequences

Rumsfeld's statement yesterday was a rare display of contrition from the US Defence Secretary, who apologized for the abuse of Iraqi prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison and warned of the potential for further revelations that could worsen the situation. "There are a lot more photographs and videos that exist," he told the Senate armed services committee, adding that releasing them would make "matters worse." The scandal, which broke last week after CBS television broadcast photographs of naked Iraqi prisoners being humiliated and forced into simulated sexual positions by their smiling US captors, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for Rumsfeld's resignation. However, the Defence Secretary refused to quit, saying he would not give in to "political pressure" and would instead work to hold those responsible accountable.

Key Takeaways:

• Rumsfeld apologized for the abuse of Iraqi prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison, taking full responsibility for the scandal.
• He warned of the potential for further revelations that could worsen the situation, saying "there are a lot more photographs and videos that exist."
• Seven US soldiers, including Spec. Sabrina Harman, have been charged with abuse, with Harman saying her unit took direction from Army intelligence officers and CIA agents and that the Geneva Convention was not observed.
• Rumsfeld rejected calls for his resignation, saying he would not give in to "political pressure," and instead announced an inquiry into the handling of the prison affair.
• The scandal has resulted in a "catastrophic crisis of credibility" for the US, according to Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy.
• An estimated six US soldiers and six officers of the reserve unit have been issued career-ending reprimands.
• Private Lynndie England, the woman shown in photographs smiling and pointing at naked prisoners, was charged with four counts, including assaulting detainees and committing an indecent act.
• The Bush administration has insisted Rumsfeld's resignation is not necessary, with President Bush saying he retains confidence in the Defence Secretary.

Statistics:

• 7 US soldiers have been charged with abuse.
• 6 officers of the reserve unit have been issued career-ending reprimands.
• 1 Private, Lynndie England, has been charged with 4 counts, including assaulting detainees and committing an indecent act.
• The US military has announced an investigation into the handling of the prison affair.
• Estimates suggest that up to 100 Iraqi detainees may have been abused.

Sources:

• The Washington Post
• CNN
• BBC News
• Reuters