Congressmen call for transparency on foreign espionage attempts on U.S. military bases

Congressman Keith Self (R-TX) and Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) are spearheading a bipartisan letter urging U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to disclose the number of espionage attempts made by foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, and Iran, on U.S. military bases. The letter has been endorsed by five additional Members of Congress who seek answers about the escalating trend of foreign espionage activities across the United States.

Congressman Keith Self expressed his concerns over the relentless efforts of these nations to steal sensitive technology, influence lawmakers, and spy on the U.S. military. He stated, “This new axis of evil is working nonstop to steal sensitive technology, influence lawmakers, and spy on our military.” He further cited an incident where a Chinese spy balloon traversed America for four days gathering sensitive information about critical military installations. Congressman Self stressed that it is crucial for the Administration to be transparent with Congress and take measures against foreign intelligence operations.

Congressman Jared Moskowitz highlighted how since 9/11, the nature of threats from foreign adversaries has shifted from terrorist groups to nation-states intent on undermining America and its values. He said, “For Congress to better enact policies to keep our soldiers and the American people safe, the Department of Defense must better inform Congress of attempted encounters on military bases. Transparency is key so we can better protect our country.”

The bipartisan letter seeks answers to several pertinent questions within 30 days:

1. How many times have U.S. military bases faced probes or spying attempts from China, Russia, or Iran?

2. What actions is this Administration taking to hold these adversaries accountable for spying on America? What consequences have been imposed on China following last year's spy balloon incident?

3. What information have these adversaries gained through their spying activities? What measures are being taken to deter future espionage attempts?

4. How are U.S. military bases combating methods such as drone usage for spying on military sites?

Congressman Keith Self, a former member of the United States Army Special Forces for over 25 years, emphasized the criticality of this period for national security. He stated, “We need to harden our military bases and bring back the policy of Peace through Strength.”