October 20,2003

Thomas H. Kean
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
The Honorable Richard L. Armitage
VICE CHAIR Deputy Secretary of State
2201 C Street, NW
Richard Ben-Veniste
Washington, DC 20520
Max Cleland
Dear Mr. Armitage:
Frederick F. Fielding

Jamie S. Oorelick As you know, the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United
States (better known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a
Slade Gorton
full and complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11,
John F. Lehman 2001 terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate
response to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and
Timothy J. Roemer
evaluate lessons learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of
James R. Thompson terrorism upon our nation.

Public Law 107-306 authorizes the Commission to secure needed information

Philip D. Zelikow
EXECiJTIVE DIRECTOR directly from any agency. Thus far, with the strong support of you and your
Department, the Commission has compiled an extensive written record numbering
more than 2 million pages. Building on this record, meetings with senior
policymakers are essential to developing an authoritative narrative of the
September 11, 2001 attacks. Your perspective is vital to the Commission's
understanding of 9-11 and its immediate aftermath, and we are therefore writing
to request an interview with you during the week of January 11, 2004.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• USG efforts to combat terrorist organizations, especially al Qaeda, from

January 20, 2001 to September 20, 2001. This includes the State
Department's overall role as well as your participation in relevant Principals'
and Deputies' Committee meetings. It should also include, inter alia, your
views of the effectiveness of U.S. counterterrorism policy.

• The State Department's counterterrorism policy in general with a particular

emphasis on diplomatic instruments considered and used to combat terrorism,
from January 20, 2001 to September 20, 2001. This would include U.S.
pressure on Pakistan and the Taliban to address the al Qaeda presence in
Afghanistan.

301 7'1' Street SW, Room 5125

Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9-llcommission.gov
The Honorable Richard L. Armitage
October 20,2003
Page 2

• The State Department's diplomatic relations with other countries (especially

Afghanistan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan) in connection with terrorism,
from January 20, 2001 to September 20, 2001. This would include your
meetings and communications with officials from such countries in
connection with counterterrrorism. This would also include meetings during
your September 2001 travels to Russia.

• The role of, and your interaction with, the Office of the Coordinator for
Counterterrorism, both before and after the September 11 attacks.

• The State Department's recommended responses to the U.S.S. Cole bombing.

• The State Department's visa issuance policy and practice in the context of
Counterterrorism.

• The Clinton-Bush transition period as it related to Counterterrorism policy.

This includes all Counterterrorism briefings you received during that period.

You may wish to review notes and other documents to refresh your recollection of
these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem relevant to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and Counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
Members of the Commission may attend, but the interview will be conducted by
Commission staff. It is the general policy of the Commission to record interviews.

This proposed meeting is separate from your requested participation in a public

hearing to be held in Washington, DC, on February 23, 2004. You will receive a
separate invitation to testify in the coming weeks, and we hope that you will agree
to appear before the Commission for this important public forum.

Please have a member of your staff contact Daniel Leopold at (202) 331 -4064 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you or
your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

Thomas H. Kean Lee H. Hamilton

Chair Vice Chair

cc: Daniel Levin, U.S. Department of Justice

Karl W. Hofmann, Executive Secretary
 I *?

Thomas H. Kean
CHAIR August 12,2003
Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR Dr. Walter Andersen
Richard Ben-Veniste
Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)
1740 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Max Cleland Washington, DC 20036-1983
Frederick F. Fielding
Dear Dr. Andersen:
Jamie S. Gorelick
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States is
Slade Gorton
directed by statute to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the
John F. Lehman September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for,
Timothy J. Roemer
and immediate response to, those attacks, as well as to evaluate the lessons
learned from those attacks and to make recommendations for preventing
James R. Thompson future attacks. As part of its investigation, the Commission hereby requests to
interview you on issues relating to the following general topics: the rise of the
Philip D. Zelikow Taliban; Pakistan's relationship with the Taliban and al Qaeda; and U.S.
EXE*7'~X'VE DIRECTOR
policy towards Pakistan. The Commission does anticipate that classified
information will be discussed at this interview.

Scott Allan, counsel to the Commission, will make the arrangements for your
interview. The Commission would like to conduct your interview sometime
in the second half of August in Washington, DC, if possible. At least two
members of the Commission's staff will attend your interview, and the general
policy of the Commission is to tape record interviews. Please call Scott Allan
at 202-331-4079 as soon as possible to discuss the time and location of your
interview, and to raise any other questions you may have. ^
--»>» -
Thank you very much in advance for your time and for your cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director

301 7'1' Street SW, Room 5125"

Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9-11 commission.gov
Thomas H. Kean November 18, 2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR
The Honorable James E. Baker
Richard Ben-Veniste United States Court of Appeals
for the Armed Forces
Max Cleland 450 E Street, NW
Fred F. Fielding Washington, DC 20442
Jamie S. Gorelick Dear Judge Baker:
Slade Gorton
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States is
. John F. Lehman directed by statute to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the
Timothy J. Roemer
September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for,
and immediate response to, those attacks, as well as to evaluate the lessons
James R. Thompson learned from those attacks and to make recommendations for preventing
future attacks. As part of its investigation, the Commission hereby requests to
lip D. Zelikow interview you on issues relating to the following topics:
UTIVE DIRECTOR

• How the Clinton administration responded to the terrorist threat in

general, and the al Qaeda threat in particular, from 1996 to your
departure from the NSC in September 2000. How important was the
use of law enforcement instruments in the overall strategy?

• The role of the NSC legal advisor's office in fashioning

counterterrorism strategy, and the interaction between the NSC legal
advisor's office and the Transnational Threat Directorate at the NSC.

• Your recollection of any Principals' and/or Deputies' Committee

Meetings you attended that were held in the aftermath of the August
1998 East Africa Embassy bombings that considered the United States
Government response to those attacks; and any such meetings held
regarding the planned "Millennium Plot."

• A review of legal authorities for conducting operations against Usama

bin Laden and senior al Qaeda leadership from 1998 until your
departure from the NSC in September 2000.

301 7th Street SW, Suite 5125 26 Federal Plaza

Washington, DC 20407 Suite 13-100
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545 New York, NY 10278
www.9-11 commission.gov T 217.7.64.1 505 F 717 764 J 595
The Honorable James E. Baker
November 18, 2003
Page 2

The Commission does anticipate that classified information will be discussed

at this interview.

Alexis Albion, Professional Staff Member to the Commission, will make the
arrangements for your interview. The Commission would like to conduct your
interview some time in the second half of November in Washington, DC, if
possible. Several members of the Commission's staff will attend your
interview, and the general policy of the Commission is to tape record
interviews. Please call Alexis Albion at 202-331-4081 as soon as possible to
discuss the time and location of your interview, and to raise any other
questions you may have.

Thank you very much in advance for your time and for your cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director
Thomas H. Kean November 18,2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR Mr. Daniel Benjamin
Richard Ben-Veniste Senior Fellow
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Max Cleland 1800 K Street, NW
Fred F. Fielding
Washington, DC 20006

Jamie S. Gorelick Dear Mr. Benjamin:

Slade Gorton
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (better
John F. Lehman known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11,2001
Timothy J. Roemer
terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response
James R. Thompson to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons
learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our
nation.
Eh^lip D. Zelikow
•^ DIRECTOR
Interviews with former policymakers are essential to developing an authoritative
narrative of the September 11,2001 attacks. As a former member of the National
Security Council staff, your knowledge and perspective is vital to the
Commission's work. We are grateful for your earlier interview and hope to
resume our discussion now that we have had an opportunity to review the
documentary record. We are therefore writing to request an interview with you
during the week of December 8, 2003.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The NSC and White House role in U.S. counterterrorism policy during your
tenure, including your knowledge of the relevant Small Group, CSG,
Deputies' Committee, and Principals' Committee meetings.

• USG counterterrorism policy in general, and toward al Qaeda in particular,

including intelligence, covert action, and related legal authorities; military
options; U.S. diplomacy, especially with Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and
Pakistan; resources and budgets; the effectiveness of the interagency process;
and the drafting of related presidential decision directives.

301 7th Street SW, Suite 5125 26 Federal Plaza

Washington, DC 20407 Suite 13400
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545 New York, NY 10278
www.9-llcommission.gov T7.17 764 1W5 F 7 1 7
Mr. Daniel Benjamin
November 18, 2003
Page 2

• USG counterterrorism efforts related to the 1998 East Africa embassy

bombings, the Millennium plots, and the 2000 attack on the U.S.S. Cole,
including a discussion of both the process whereby responses were chosen and
your views on their ultimate effectiveness.

• Discussions of possible al Qaeda attacks on U.S. soil during your tenure and
responses either taken or considered.

• The use of UAVs as a counterterrorism tool, including your own views on

their efficacy and the policymaking process.

• USG efforts to detect and disrupt terrorist financing, particularly vis-a-vis

Saudi Arabia, and the level of international cooperation with such efforts.

• The handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition

period, including your knowledge of briefings given and recommendations
offered.

You may wish to review notes and other materials you may have to refresh your
recollection of these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem important to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
The Commission anticipates that classified information will be discussed at this
private session, requiring that the interviews take place at the Commission's 2100
K Street, NW, location. Members of the Commission may attend, but the
interviews will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general policy of the
Commission to record interviews.

Please contact Mike Hurley at (202) 331-4077 to indicate your availability for
such an interview and to relay any questions you may have. Thank you in
advance for your time and cooperation with the Commission and its staff in this
important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director
Thomas H. Kean
CHAIR July 25, 2003
Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR Mr. Daniel Benjamin
Senior Fellow
Richard Ben-Veniste
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Max Cleland 1800 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Frederick F. Fielding

Jamie S. Gorelick Dear Mr. Benjamin:

Slade Gorton
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States is
John F. Lehman directed by statute to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the
September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for,
Timothy ]. Roemer
and immediate response to, those attacks, as well as to evaluate the lessons
James R. Thompson learned from those attacks and to make recommendations for preventing
future attacks. As part of its investigation, the Commission hereby requests to
Philip D. Zelikow interview you on issues relating to the following general topic: U.S.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR counterterrorism policy since 1998. The Commission does anticipate that
classified information will be discussed at this interview.

Mike Hurley, a Senior Counsel to the Commission, will make the

arrangements for your interview. The Commission would like to conduct this
interview on July 29, 2003 in Washington, DC, if possible. We anticipate that
we will want to interview you again sometime in the fall, after we have had an
opportunity to review NSC documents from the Clinton administration.

Several members of the Commission's staff will attend your interview, and the
general policy of the Commission is to tape record interviews. Please call
Mike Hurley at (202) 331-4077 as soon as possible to discuss the time and
location of your interview, and to raise any other questions you may have.

Thank you very much in advance for your time and for your cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director
301 7 lh Street SW, Room 5125
Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9-llcommission.gov
Thomas H. Kean October 20, 2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR
Mr. Samuel R. Berger
Richard Ben-Veniste Chairman
Stonebridge International
Max Cleland
555 13th Street, NW
Frederick F. Fielding Suite 300 West
Washington, DC 20004
Jamie S. Gorelick

Slade Gorton Dear Mr. Berger:

John F. Lehman The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (better
Timothy J. Roemer known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11,2001
James R. Thompson terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response
to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons
Philip D. Zelikow learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR nation.

Interviews with former senior policymakers are essential to developing an

authoritative narrative of the September 11, 2001 attacks. As the former National
Security Adviser, your perspective is vital to the Commission's collective
understanding of 9-11, and we are therefore writing to request an interview with
you during the week of January 11, 2004.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The NSC role in U.S. counterterrorism policy from January 1998 until the end
of the Clinton administration, including relevant Deputies' Committee and
Principals' Committee meetings and the drafting of terrorism-related PDDs.
This should include, inter alia, your views on the effectiveness of U.S.
counterterrorism policy.

• U.S. counterterrorism efforts related to the 1998 East Africa embassy

bombings, including a discussion of both the process whereby responses were
chosen and your views on their effectiveness.

• U.S. counterterrorism policy in general, with a particular emphasis on ongoing

U.S. efforts to handle the al Qaeda threat, including intelligence, covert

301 7lh Street SW, Room 5125

Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9'11 commission.gov
Mr. Samuel R. Berger
October 20,2003
Page 2

actions, and related legal authorities; military options considered; U.S.

diplomacy, especially with Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan; terrorist
financing; the use of UAVs; and the effectiveness of the interagency process
on counterterrorism issues.

• Discussions of possible al Qaeda attacks on U.S. soil during your tenure and
responses either taken or considered.

• U.S. counterterrorism efforts related to the Millennium plots, including after-

action review.

• U.S. counterterrorism efforts related to the 2000 attack on the U.S.S. Cole,
including responses considered and the handling of the Cole issue during the
transition period.

• Steps taken relating to U.S. visa, immigration, and border controls and related
bilateral and multilateral discussions.
i

• The handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition

period, including a detailed discussion of briefings given and
recommendations offered.

You may wish to review notes and other materials you may have to refresh your
recollection of these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem important to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
The Commission anticipates that classified information will be discussed at this
private session, requiring that the interview take place at the Commission's 2100
K Street, NW, location. Members of the Commission may attend, but the
interview will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general policy of the
Commission to record interviews.

This proposed interview is separate from your requested participation in a public

hearing to be held in Washington, DC, on March 25,2004. You will receive a
separate invitation to testify in the coming weeks, and we hope that you will agree
to appear before the Commission for this important public forum.

Please have a member of your staff contact Daniel Leopold at (202) 331-4064 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you or
Mr. Samuel R. Berger
October 20,2003
Page 2

your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

Thomas H. Kean Lee H. Hamilton

Chair Vice Chair
Thomas H. Kean November 17, 2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR The Honorable J. Cofer Black
Richard Ben-Veniste Coordinator for Counterterrorism
Department of State
Max Cleland 2201 C Street NW, Suite 2509
Fred F. Fielding
Washington, DC 20520

Jamie S. Gorelick Dear Ambassador Black:

Slade Gorton
As you know, the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States
John F. Lehman (better known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11, 2001 terrorist
Timothy J. Roemer
attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response to the
James R. Thompson attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons learned
and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our nation.
jp D. Zelikow
UTIVE DIRECTOR Public Law 107-306 authorizes the Commission to secure needed information directly
from any agency. Thus far, the Commission has compiled an extensive written record
numbering more than 2 million pages. Building on this record, meetings with senior
officials are essential to developing an authoritative narrative of the September 11,
2001 attacks. Your perspective is vital to the Commission's understanding of 9-11
and its immediate aftermath, and we are therefore writing to request an interview with
you during the week of December 8, 2003.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but not
limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The CIA's role in counterterrorism policy from July 1999 until September 20,
2001, including the CIA's responses to the Millennium plots and the 2000 attack
on the U.S.S. Cole; counterterrorism strategies proposed by the CIA to NSC staff;
the handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition period;
and the Agency's immediate response to the 9-11 attacks.

• Special activities conducted by the CIA against Usama bin Laden and al Qaeda;
the legal authorities, supporting infrastructure, and resources for carrying out such
activities; and the role of foreign liaison.

• The Department of Defense's support of the CIA's special activities, and overall
CIA-DOD cooperation.

301 7th Street SW, Suite 5125 26 Federal Plaza

Washington, DC 20407 Suite 13-100
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545 New York, NY 10278
www.9-1 lcommission.gov T 212.264.1505 F 212.264.1595
The Honorable J. Gofer Black
November 17,2003
Page 2
• Watchlisting policy and practice before and after September 11, 2001, including
the sharing of terrorist identity information between the relevant agencies.

• Al Qaeda, including its historical growth in Sudan and Afghanistan, its successes
and failures, its links to other terror groups and to state sponsors, and any attempts
by it to acquire or develop chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear weapons.

• USG counterterrorism policy from December 2002 to the present, including the
role of the Coordinator within the State Department; policy oversight of
international counterterrorism activities, programs, training, and technical
assistance; USG efforts to detect and disrupt terrorist financing; interagency
cooperation in the development and implementation of counterterrorism policy;
and foreign government cooperation with USG counterterrorism efforts.

You may wish to review notes and other documents to refresh your recollection of
these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem relevant to the Commission's
understanding of 9-11 specifically and U.S. counterterrorism policy generally, as well as
your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future. Members of the Commission
may attend, but the interview will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general
policy of the Commission to record interviews.

This proposed interview is separate from your requested participation in a public

hearing to be held in Washington, DC, on January 26, 2004. You will receive a
separate invitation to testify in the coming weeks, and we hope that you will agree to
appear before the Commission for this important public forum.

Please have a member of your staff contact Mike Hurley at (202) 331-4077 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you
or your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with the
Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director

cc: Daniel Levin, Department of Justice

Karl Hofmann, Department of State
Jolene Lowry, Central Intelligence Agency
Thomas H. Kean November 18, 2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR The Honorable Stephen A. Cambone
Richard Ben-Veniste Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence
The Pentagon, Room 3E836
Max Cleland Washington, DC 20301
Fred F. Fielding
Dear Dr. Cambone:
Jamie S. Gorelick

Slade Gorton
As you know, the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United
States (better known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a
John F. Lehman full and complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11,
2001 terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate
Timothy J. Roemer
response to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and
James R. Thompson evaluate lessons learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of
terrorism upon our nation.
Philip D. Zelikow
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Public Law 107-306 authorizes the Commission to secure needed information
directly from any agency. Thus far, with your support and the efforts of many at
the Department of Defense, the Commission has compiled an extensive written
record numbering more than 2 million pages. Building on this record, meetings
with senior policymakers are essential to developing an authoritative narrative of
the September 11, 2001 attacks. Your perspective is vital to the Commission's
understanding of the Global War on Terrorism, and we are therefore writing to
request an interview with you during the week of December 15, 2003.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• Your work on counterterrorism intelligence or policy issues during the

transition period and before 9-11.

• Your knowledge of the events on September 11, 2001, and the immediate
response to the attacks in the days leading up to the President's September 20
address.

• The genesis of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence
(USDI), its charter, and authorities. What need does it meet? What function
does USDI have relative to policy guidance, budget formulation, allocation of
resources, and operational activities within the defense intelligence

301 7th Street SW, Suite 5125 26 Federal Plaza

Washington, DC 20407 Suite 13400
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545 New York, NY 10278
www.9-11 commission.gov T 212.264-1505 F 212.264.1595
 The Honorable Stephen A. Cambone
November 18, 2003
Page 2

community? Does USDI provide departmental or other intelligence to the

Secretary?

• The relationship of USDI to the Intelligence Community in general and the

Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) in particular. How does the
Department of Defense (DoD) interact with the DCI in setting priorities and
requirements, and allocating intelligence resources and assets?

• The role of USDI in the Global War on Terrorism, particularly with regard to
DoD policy formulation and homeland security.

• DoD and defense intelligence strategies for counterterrorism, including the

role, if any, of USDI in counterterrorism operations.

• The organization of the Intelligence Community, including the effect of the

possible creation of a Director for National Intelligence and/or domestic
intelligence service on DoD and USDI.

• Congressional oversight of the Intelligence Community.

You may wish to review notes and other documents to refresh your recollection of
these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem relevant to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and the Global War on Terrorism
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
Members of the Commission may attend, but the interview will be conducted by
Commission staff. It is the general policy of the Commission to record interviews.

Please have a member of your staff contact Melissa Coffey at (202) 331-4080 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you or
your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
r Executive Director

cc: Daniel Levin, U.S. Department of Justice

Pat Downs, U.S. Department of Defense
 WITHDRAWAL NOTICE

RG: 148 Exposition, Anniversary, and Memorial Commissions

SERIES: Team 3,9/11 Commission
NND PROJECT NUMBER: 52100 FOIA CASE NUMBER: 31107

WITHDRAWAL DATE: 11/20/2008

BOX: 00001 FOLDER: 0001 TAB: 75 DOC ID: 31206582

COPIES: 1 PAGES: 1

_ACCESS RESTRICTED j
The item identified below has been withdrawn from this file:

FOLDER TITLE: Interviews

DOCUMENT DATE: 11/05/2003 DOCUMENT TYPE: Letter

FROM: Zelikow

TO: Carney

SUBJECT: Interview request

This document has been withdrawn for the following reason(s):

9/11 Personal Privacy

WITHDRAWAL NOTICE
 lONON,

Thomas H. Kean November 25,2003

CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR Mr. Roger Cressey
Richard Ben-Veniste Good Harbor Consulting Group
1902 N. Monroe Street
Max Cleland Arlington, VA 22207
Fred F. Fielding
Dear Mr. Cressey:
Jamie S. Gorelick
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (better
Slade Gorton
known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
John F. Lehman complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11,2001
terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response
Timothy J. Roemer
to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons
James R. Thompson learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our
nation.
. Zelikow
QUTIVE DIRECTOR Interviews with former policymakers are essential to developing an authoritative
narrative of the September 11,2001 attacks. As a former member of the National
Security Council staff, your perspective is vital to the Commission's collective
understanding of 9-11 and its aftermath, and we are therefore writing to request an
interview with you during the week of December 15,2003.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The NSC and White House role in U.S. counterterrorism policy during your
tenure, including your knowledge of the relevant Small Group, CSG,
Deputies' Committee, and Principals' Committee meetings.

• USG counterterrorism policy in general, and toward al Qaeda in particular,

including intelligence, covert action, and related legal authorities; military
options; U.S. diplomacy, especially with Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and
Pakistan; resources and budgets; the effectiveness of the interagency process;
and the drafting of related presidential decision directives and national
security presidential directives.

• USG counterterrorism efforts related to the 1998 East Africa embassy

bombings, the Millennium plots, and the 2000 attack on the U.S.S. Cole,
including a discussion of both the process whereby responses were chosen and
your views on their ultimate effectiveness.

301 7th Street SW, Suite 5125 26 Federal Plaza

Washington, DC 20407 Suite 13-100
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545 New York, NY 10278
www.9-llcommission.gov T 212.264.1505 F 212.264.1595
Mr. Roger Cressey
November 25, 2003
Page 2

• Discussions of possible al Qaeda attacks on U.S. soil during your tenure and
responses either taken or considered.

• The use of UAVs as a counterterrorism tool, including your own views on

their efficacy and the policymaking process.

• USG efforts to detect and disrupt terrorist financing, particularly vis-a-vis

Saudi Arabia, and the level of international cooperation with such efforts.

• The handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition

period, including your knowledge of briefings given and recommendations
offered.

You may wish to review notes and other materials you may have to refresh your
recollection of these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem important to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
The Commission anticipates that classified information will be discussed at this
private session, requiring that the interviews take place at the Commission's 2100
K Street, NW, location. Members of the Commission may attend, but the
interviews will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general policy of the
Commission to record interviews.

Please contact Mike Hurley at (202) 331-4077 to indicate your availability for
such an interview and to relay any questions you may have. Thank you in
advance for your time and cooperation with the Commission and its staff in this
important matter.

Sincerely,

Philip Zelikow
Executive Director
 S\OM ON

Thomas H. Kean October 20, 2003

CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR
Mr. Richard A. Clarke
Richard Ben-Veniste Chairman
Good Harbor Consulting Group
Max Cleiand
1902 N.Monroe Street
Frederick F. Fielding Arlington, VA 22207
Jamie S. Oorelick Dear Mr. Clarke:
Slade Gorton
The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (better
John F. Lehman known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
Timothy J. Roemer complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11, 2001
terrorist Attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response
James R. Thompson to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons
learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our
Philip D. Zelikow nation.
EXP"STIVE DIRECTOR
Interviews with former senior policymakers are essential to developing an
authoritative narrative of the September 11, 2001 attacks. As the former National
Coordinator for Counterterrorism and former head of the Transnational Threats
Directorate (TNT), your knowledge and perspective is vital to the Commission's
work. Given your unique role in U.S. Counterterrorism policy, we are therefore
writing to request an interview, to be divided into two sessions—the first during
the week of December 7, 2003, the second during the week of January 11, 2004.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The NSC, TNT, and White House role in U.S. Counterterrorism policy from
January 1998 until the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001
attacks, including relevant CSG, Deputies' Committee, and Principals'
Committee meetings. This should include, inter alia, your views on the
effectiveness of U.S. Counterterrorism policy.

• The drafting of terrorism-related PDDs and NSPDs, including the process

leading up to the September 4, 2001, Principals' Committee meeting.

• U.S. Counterterrorism efforts related to the 1998 East Africa embassy

bombings, including a discussion of both the process whereby responses were
chosen and your views on their effectiveness.
301 7 th Street SW, Room 5125
Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9-llcommission.gov
Mr. Richard A. Clarke
October 20,2003
Page 2

• U.S. counterterrorism policy in general, with a particular emphasis on ongoing

U.S. efforts to handle the al Qaeda threat, including intelligence, covert
actions, and related legal authorities; military options considered; U.S.
diplomacy, especially with Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan;
resources and budgets; and the effectiveness of the interagency process on
counterterrorism issues.

• A description, analysis, and assessment of the use of UAVs as a

counterterrorism tool during your tenure, including your own views on their
efficacy and the policymaking process.

• A description, analysis, and assessment of steps taken related to terrorist

financing, including vis-a-vis Saudi Arabia.

• A description, analysis, and assessment of steps taken related to U.S. visa,

immigration, and border controls and related bilateral and multilateral
discussions.

• Discussions of possible al Qaeda attacks on U.S. soil during your tenure and
responses either taken or considered.

• U.S. counterterrorism efforts related to the Millennium plots, including after-

action review.

• U.S. counterterrorism efforts related to the 2000 attack on the U.S.S. Cole,
including responses considered and the handling of the Cole issue during the
transition period.

• The handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition

period, including a detailed discussion of briefings given and
recommendations offered.

• A description, analysis, and assessment of the immediate response of the NSC

(especially TNT) and the White House to the 9-11 attacks, including your own
actions, advice, and decisions in the immediate aftermath of the attacks.

• A description of your advice for and interactions with senior U.S. officials,
including Presidents Clinton and Bush

You may wish to review notes and other materials you may have to refresh your
recollection of these matters prior to the interview.
Mr. Richard A. Clarke
October 20, 2003
Page3

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem important to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
The Commission anticipates that classified information will be discussed at this
private session, requiring that the interviews take place at the Commission's 2100
K Street, NW, location. Members of the Commission may attend, but the
interviews will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general policy of the
Commission to record interviews.

This proposed meeting is separate from your requested participation in a public

hearing to be held in Washington, DC on March 25, 2004. You will receive a
separate invitation to testify in the coming weeks, and we hope that you will agree
to appear before the Commission for this important public forum.

Please have a member of your staff contact Daniel Leopold at (202) 331-4064 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you or
your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

Thomas H. Kean Lee H. Hamilton

Chair Vice Chair
Thomas H. Kean October 20, 2003
CHAIR

Lee H. Hamilton
VICE CHAIR
The Honorable William S. Cohen
Richard Ben-Veniste Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
The Cohen Group
MaxCleland
1200 19th Street, NW
Frederick F. Fielding Suite 400
Washington, DC 20036
Jamie S. Oorelick

Slade Gorton
Dear Secretary Cohen:

John F. Lehman The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (better
Timothy J. Roemer
known as the 9-11 Commission) is directed by statute to prepare a full and
complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11, 2001
James R. Thompson terrorist attacks, including the nation's preparedness for, and immediate response
to, the attacks. The Commission is also chartered to identify and evaluate lessons
Phjljp D. Zelikow
Philip learned and provide recommendations to prevent future acts of terrorism upon our
I<<^ DIRECTOR nation.

Interviews with former senior policymakers are essential to developing an

authoritative narrative of the September 11, 2001 attacks. As the former
Secretary of Defense, your perspective is vital to the Commission's collective
understanding of 9-11, and we are therefore writing to request an interview with
you during the week of February 2, 2004.

The Commission wishes to discuss a wide range of topics with you, including (but
not limited to) your description, analysis, and assessment of:

• The Department of Defense's role in U. S. counterterrorism policy from

January 1998 through January 2001, including your assessment of Defense's
view of the extent of its counterterrorism responsibilities.

• Defense's positions articulated at relevant Principals' Committee meetings on

how to respond to the al Qaeda threat, as well as a description of Principals'
Committee meetings that discussed military options.

• The effectiveness of interagency coordination on the al Qaeda threat,

including guidance provided by Defense for the relevant presidential decision
directives.

301 7 lh Street SW, Room 5125

Washington, DC 20407
T 202.331.4060 F 202.296.5545
www.9-llcommission.gov
The Honorable William S. Cohen
October 20, 2003
Page 2

• Defense's responses to the 1998 East Africa embassy bombings, the

Millennium plots, and the 2000 attack on the U.S.S. Cole, including Defense's
views on the wisdom of various options considered.

• Military options requested, considered, and rejected or approved for

responding to al Qaeda during this period, including paramilitary or special
forces missions, steps taken by Defense in preparation for a possible order to
strike al Qaeda or Taliban targets during your tenure, the readiness of the
military to carry out possible orders, and military attitudes toward requests to
strike Afghan or other al Qaeda-related targets.

• Discussions that took place on possible al Qaeda attacks on U.S. soil and the
Department's preparations for homeland defense;

• Your own advice to the President and other principals about the proper
strategic and tactical responses to the al Qaeda threat

• Intelligence support to the military on the al Qaeda threat, including

cooperation between the CIA and Defense in responding to the al Qaeda threat
and the possible use of UAVs. This should also include discussion of
funding, flying, and firing issues related to relevant UAV programs.

• Defense's efforts to ensure international military cooperation against al Qaeda.

• The handling of counterterrorism issues during the Clinton-Bush transition

period, including a detailed discussion of briefings given, recommendations
offered, and responses to the views of outgoing officials.

You may wish to review notes and other materials you may have to refresh your
recollection of these matters prior to the interview.

We are, of course, interested in any other issues you deem important to the
Commission's understanding of 9-11 specifically and counterterrorism policy
generally, as well as your thoughts on policy recommendations for the future.
The Commission anticipates that classified information will be discussed at this
private session, requiring that the interview take place at the Commission's 2100
K Street, NW, location. Members of the Commission may attend, but the
interview will be conducted by Commission staff. It is the general policy of the
Commission to record interviews.

This proposed interview is separate from your requested participation in a public

hearing to be held in Washington, DC, on March 22,2004. You will receive a
\~
The Honorable William S. Cohen
October 20, 2003
PageS

separate invitation to testify in the coming weeks, and we hope that you will agree
to appear before the Commission for this important public forum.

Please have a member of your staff contact Daniel Leopold at (202) 331-4064 to
indicate your availability for such an interview and to relay any questions you or
your staff may have. Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation with
the Commission and its staff in this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

Thomas H. Kean Lee H. Hamilton

Chair Vice Chair