1、Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21310Updated November 6, 2002The Intelligence Community and 9/11:Proposals for an Independent CommissionRichard A. Best, Jr.Specialist in National DefenseForeign Affairs, Defense, an
2、d Trade DivisionSummaryThere is significant support for an independent commission to assess theperformance of the U.S. Intelligence Community in regard to the September 11, 2001attacks, despite the fact that a joint inquiry by the Senate and House intelligencecommittees has been underway since early
3、 2002. In separate legislation, the House andSenate have endorsed proposals for an independent commission. Proponents argue thatan investigation by persons without ties to intelligence agencies could provide greaterassurance of an impartial assessment that could lead, if necessary, to improvements i
4、nthe nations intelligence effort. Opponents argue that it would usurp the responsibilitiesof congressional intelligence committees, burden senior intelligence officials, and riskexposure of intelligence assets deeply involved in the current struggle against terrorism.This report will be updated as c
