As FACTS previously reported, FBI agents (FBI) have searched the home of former US intelligence officer and former UN inspector Scott Ritter.
According to Ritter, quoted by the Times Union, the search warrant at his home was “apparently related to the US government's concerns about violations of the US Foreign Agents Registration Act.“< /p>
As the post notes, the law requires individuals and organizations representing foreign interests in the United States to register with the Department of Justice and disclose their activities. Ritter himself categorically denies any accusations and also noted that the US authorities are trying to intimidate him.
Earlier, the local division of the television company NBC reported a search of Ritter's house.
An FBI spokesman confirmed the raid but declined to provide details, citing an ongoing investigation. "We can confirm that today /b.r. yesterday/ Mr. Ritter's home was lawfully searched. This is part of an ongoing investigation and we are not at liberty to discuss details at this time," the spokesperson said.
Scott Ritter is best known for his work as a UN weapons inspector in Iraq in the 1990s. Since then, he has been an outspoken critic of US foreign policy, particularly regarding military interventions in the Middle East and the broader war on terror. Ritter is also a commentator on international security issues and the author of several books on the subject.
The raid sparked backlash from Ritter's supporters and critics alike. Lawyers say Ritter was targeted for his outspoken views, while opponents point to his controversial past, including previous legal troubles, as justification for the attack.
Ritter's attorney issued a brief statement after the attack, saying: “Mr. Ritter has cooperated fully with law enforcement and maintains his innocence. We are confident that any allegations will be proven unfounded.