Bush approves FBI-DOJ intel shakeup, asset freezes for WMD suspects News
Bush approves FBI-DOJ intel shakeup, asset freezes for WMD suspects

[JURIST] As anticipated [JURIST report], President Bush Wednesday announced the creation of a new intelligence service within the FBI, endorsing 70 of 74 recommendations presented by the Commission on the Intelligence Capabilities of the US Regarding Weapons of Mass Destruction [official website]. Bush also adopted changes that will consolidate US Justice Department counterterrorism, espionage, and intelligence units and will also ask Congress to create a new assistant attorney general position. The White House provides a full list of the changes. Sen. Charles Robb, D-Va, co-chairman of the committee, said it was "truly extraordinary" for Bush to adopt so many of their suggestions. AP has more. The President also signed an executive order [text] authorizing the freeze of US financial assets for individuals or companies suspected of trafficking WMDs. A government official said eight organizations – four in Iran, three in North Korea, and one in Syria – are being targeted. AP has more.