Condeming Abuse of Iraqi Prisoners

CONDEMNING ABUSE OF IRAQI PRISONERS

Mr. COLEMAN. Mr. President, I strongly support the resolution which the Senate is considering today.

The world has witnessed images that do not represent America's cause for freedom, democracy and human rights. While our American soldiers toil and sacrifice to bring justice and opportunity to Iraq, there is a small group of soldiers who have undermined the work of this noble mission through their despicable behavior.

The acts that took place at Abu Ghraib prison were simply inexcusable. The violation of any Iraqi prisoner's human rights, dignity or life by any member of the American military-for whatever reason-defies not only international law, but basic human decency. These acts risk undermining the mission, and put at risk other American men and women working for freedom in Iraq.

I am concerned that Congress was not adequately informed of the abuses and the investigations. Secretary Rumsfeld's appearance on Capitol Hill last week was welcome, and I expect that he will continue to make himself available to the Senate.

I deeply appreciate the President's willingness to speak candidly and apologetically to the Arab world. I support the decision to offer compensation to the victims, and to put together commissions to ascertain how widespread the abuse and humiliation were, and what can be done to prevent future violations. I am hopeful that these steps will be part of a much needed process to make amends for the great damage that has been done by a few men and women.

Abu Ghraib was home to torture under Saddam Hussein's regime, and has not yet overcome its notorious reputation. Consequently, I believe that, should the Iraqi people wish it, this prison should be wiped off the map. Tearing down Abu Ghraib prison would symbolize the definitive end to the era of torture-an era which preceded Operation Iraqi Freedom, and must be put to rest once and for all.