6 chapters across the catalog
Unprivileged Enemy Belligerents, DOD Terminology and FEMA Camps
The Department of Defense has updated its terminology, replacing "unlawful enemy combatant" with "unprivileged enemy belligerent." The hosts examine the new definitions, which include "privileged belligerents" and "civilian internees." They suggest these linguistic shifts are preparations for expanded detention powers and "FEMA camps."
Non-International Armed Conflict, Public Perception of Vigilantism
The legal term "Non-International Armed Conflict" (NIAC) is identified as the justification for using military force against citizens labeled as enemy combatants. The discussion suggests that the American public has been conditioned by television to accept vigilantism and extrajudicial killings. This cultural shift is blamed for the lack of outrage over the bypass of the judicial system.
Pentagon lawyer Jeh Johnson delivers a speech at Yale Law School stating that "belligerent" U.S. citizens are valid military targets and do not enjoy immunity from drone strikes. The hosts analyze the dictionary definition of "belligerent," noting its broadness. They express concern that the term could be applied to anyone argumentative or "chippy," including themselves.
NDAA Sections 1031 and 1032 on Indefinite Detention
The discussion covers the controversial Sections 1031 and 1032 of the NDAA, which affirm the president's authority to detain "covered persons" under the law of war. While the bill claims the requirement for military custody does not extend to U.S. citizens, the hosts argue that the definition of an "unprivileged enemy belligerent" remains dangerously vague. The legislation effectively ensures that Guantanamo Bay will remain open, contradicting previous campaign promises by President Obama.
National Defense Authorization Act and the Belligerent Label
Section 1034 of the National Defense Authorization Bill is highlighted for potentially giving the President unchecked power to attack "belligerents" anywhere in the world, including U.S. citizens. The hosts discuss the broad definition of "belligerent" and how the term is beginning to appear in news stories regarding minor civil disobedience.
Enemy Belligerent Interrogation Act, Senator John McCain Bill
Senate Bill S3081, the Enemy Belligerent Interrogation, Detention, and Prosecution Act of 2010, was introduced by Senator John McCain. The legislation proposes placing individuals suspected of terrorism—including those captured within the United States—into indefinite military custody. The bill is currently in the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.
