John Brennan Speech on Obama Administration Antiterrorism Policies and Practices/Opinio Juris

John O. Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, spoke at Harvard law School on September 16, 2001, giving a broad descriptoin and defense of the Administration's policies. On the occasion of the news of the killing by drone strike of American-born al-Qaeda leader al-Awlaki, I thought it a good moment to take a look at the Brennan speech. The block quote excerpted below is just boilerplate. To see if you agree or disagree, click on the link below and read the whole speech. - GWC

Opinio Juris » Blog Archive » John Brennan Speech on Obama Administration Antiterrorism Policies and Practices:

First, our highest priority is – and always will be – the safety and security of the American people. As President Obama has said, we have no greater responsibility as a government.

Second, we will use every lawful tool and authority at our disposal.

Third, we are pragmatic, not rigid or ideological – making decisions not based on preconceived notions about which action seems “stronger,” but based on what will actually enhance the security of this country and the safety of the American people.

We address each threat and each circumstance in a way that best serves our national security interests, which includes building partnerships with countries around the world.

Fourth—and the principle that guides all our actions, foreign and domestic—we will uphold the core values that define us as Americans, and that includes adhering to the rule of law.

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