For example ...
The 96 page classified NIE read:
Iraq is developing medium-range ballistic missile capabilities, largely through foreign assistance in building specialized facilities, including a test stand for engines more powerful than those in its current missile force. We have low confidence in our ability to assess when Saddam would use WMD. (pg. 7)
Compared to the 25 page White Paper that was given to some 95% of Congress, read:
Iraq is developing medium-range ballistic missile capabilities, largely through foreign assistance in building specialized facilities. (pg. 2)
Completely extracted was the admission that our intelligence agencies "possessed low confidence in their ability to assess when Saddam would use WMD".
... in another example ...
The 96 page classified NIE read:
Revelations after the Gulf war starkly demonstrate the extensive efforts undertaken by Iraq to deny information. We lack specific information on many key aspects of Iraq's WMD programs. (pg. 5)
Compared to the 25 page White Paper that was given to some 95% of Congress, read:
Revelations after the Gulf war starkly demonstrate the extensive efforts undertaken by Iraq to deny information. (pg. 5)
Completely extracted was the admission of how "we lack specific information on many key aspects of Iraq's WMD." And there are many sush examples like this one when reviewing the two documents side by side.
... in another example ...
Under a section titled, "Low Confidence," on page 9 of the 96 page classified NIE, it read:
- When Saddam would use weapons of mass destruction.
- Whether Saddam would engage in clandestine attacks against the US Homeland.
- Whether in desperation Saddam would share chemical or biological weapons with al-Qa'ida.
... that entire section was left out of the 25 page White Paper that was given to some 95% of Congress.
Needless to say, there are 71 pages of differences between the two documents. No one in their right mind could say those whose security clearance would only allow them access to the 25 page White Paper ... had the same information Bush had.