CIA torture undermined US ‘moral authority’: White House

White House spokesperson Josh Earnest said on Wednesday that the US’ moral authority was one of its most powerful tools to protect and advance its interests around the globe. He added that President Obama’s decision to ban the harsh interrogation techniques when he assumed office demonstrated his commitment to rebuild that “moral authority,”.

Earnest said that it was important for people to understand that the US is willing to confront its shortcomings, be honest about them and be as candid as possible to ensure that they do not occur again.