Joe Biden Urged To Declassify 'Serious National Security Threat' House Intel Report
House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner (R-Ohio) has labeled a recent intelligence discovery as a "serious national security threat," urging President Joe Biden to declassify information related to the ongoing concern, AXIOS reports.
"Today, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has made available to all Members of Congress information concerning a serious national security threat," Turner said, adding that he is requesting the president to declassify every information linked to the threat so the Congress, Administration, and the allies can discuss the actions needed to respond to the national security threat.
This call for transparency underscores the gravity of the situation, prompting congressional leaders to be briefed on the matter.
Concerns Surrounding Russian Military Capabilities
The focal point of the intelligence is Russia's endeavors to deploy a nuclear anti-satellite system in space, according to reliable sources, per CNN.
Although the system is currently under development and not yet in orbit, lawmakers argue that the severity of the threat warrants public awareness.
While the technology's progress remains uncertain, it is clarified that the threat does not involve a weapon designed for human targets.
Despite reassurances from senior members of Congress that the threat is not immediate, concerns arise regarding the potential danger posed to US nuclear command and control satellites if an anti-satellite weapon is placed in Earth's orbit.
Hans Kristensen, director of the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists, emphasizes the significance of these satellites for seamless control over the nation's nuclear arsenal.
Kristensen points out that an orbital anti-satellite system, whether nuclear or conventional, poses a new level of national security threat.
While other countries have tested anti-satellite weapons before, the US has been firm in stating that it would respond vigorously to any attack on its nuclear command and control satellites.
White House and Congressional Response
White House national security adviser and key lawmakers sought to address public concerns, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation without causing unnecessary alarm, according to ABC News.
The intelligence, reportedly related to Russia's interest in placing a nuclear weapon in space, is viewed as a sensitive matter requiring careful consideration.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) assured the public that there is "no need for public alarm," indicating that the administration is actively working on the issue.
He plans to press for appropriate action during the upcoming Gang of Eight briefings, a high-level intelligence briefing provided to selected congressional leaders.
Democratic Representative Jim Himes, ranking member on the House Intelligence Committee, echoed Johnson's sentiments, characterizing the threat as "significant" but not a cause for panic.
He hinted at the possibility of declassifying more information but emphasized that such discussions should be handled privately.
The White House's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, confirmed a scheduled classified meeting with congressional leadership before Turner's call for declassification.
Sullivan declined to disclose specific details about the national security threat, reiterating the broader reality of dealing with various global threats on a daily basis.
"I am confident that President Biden, in the decisions that he is taking, is going to ensure the security of the American people," Sullivan said.
This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Bert Hoover
WATCH: National security threat: House Intel Chair urges Biden to declassify - From LiveNOW from FOX
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