-Friday World February 17, 2026
In a recent interview with the BBC conducted in Berlin—where she was attending the annual World Forum (associated with events like the Munich Security Conference)—Clinton demanded immediate and complete transparency. She stated: "Get the files out. They are slow-walking it." She described the handling of the files as creating a "cover-up" atmosphere, implying intentional obstruction to protect certain individuals or political interests.
White House Response and Claims of Transparency The White House pushed back strongly against Clinton's accusations. Administration spokespeople emphasized that the Trump government has done "more for the victims than the Democrats ever did." Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed by President Trump in November 2025, the Department of Justice released over 3.5 million pages of documents, more than 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images in January 2026.
Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote to Congress asserting that all essential documents have been disclosed. However, critics from both parties argue that the total file volume exceeds 6 million items, with significant portions still redacted or withheld—including internal memos, notes, and emails. Lawmakers continue to press for unredacted releases, questioning whether the process has been truly exhaustive.
Clinton alleged that the administration is using the files selectively for political gain or to shield powerful figures. She highlighted that the documents contain "very troubling and really horrific information" and insisted they must be released in full and transparently.
Clinton Couple's Testimony and Epstein Connections The Epstein files frequently mention former President **Bill Clinton**, who has acknowledged knowing Epstein decades ago and traveling on his plane for Clinton Foundation work. Bill Clinton maintains he cut ties with Epstein years before the scandals erupted and has denied ever visiting Epstein's private island.
The House Oversight Committee issued subpoenas to both Clintons earlier. After initial resistance and threats of contempt of Congress charges, they agreed in early February 2026 to appear for closed-door, transcribed, and filmed depositions. Hillary Clinton is scheduled for February 26, and Bill Clinton for February 27.
The Clintons have publicly called for their testimony to be held openly in a public hearing with cameras rolling, arguing that closed sessions would resemble a "kangaroo court" and allow politicization. Republican Chairman James Comer described their agreement as a "capitulation" after pressure mounted, including a potential contempt vote. The Clintons countered that they have "nothing to hide" and that Republicans are deflecting scrutiny from President Trump, whose name also appears repeatedly in the files (though no proven criminal involvement has emerged).
Background of the Epstein Case and Political Fallout** Jeffrey Epstein died in jail in 2019 under suspicious circumstances while awaiting trial on charges of sex trafficking minors. His associate Ghislaine Maxwell was convicted and sentenced to a lengthy prison term. The released files mention high-profile figures like Trump, Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, and others—often in the context of social or travel connections—but most references involve no substantiated wrongdoing beyond associations.
Trump has distanced himself, calling Epstein a "creep" and stating he severed ties long ago. Despite thousands of mentions of Trump in the documents, no serious accusations have been proven against him.
Clinton's attack fits into the heated 2026 political climate, where both parties accuse each other of weaponizing the Epstein files. Democrats claim selective releases protect allies of the administration, while Republicans argue the Clintons are evading full accountability.
The Ongoing Battle for Truth The Epstein files have evolved from a criminal investigation into one of America's biggest political controversies. Hillary Clinton's demand to "get the files out" reignites calls for total transparency. Will the remaining documents be fully disclosed? Will the Clintons' depositions reveal major new details? Or will this remain a partisan tug-of-war?
Victims' advocates continue to push for justice and full openness. The world watches to see whether truth can prevail against the influence of the powerful.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World February 17, 2026
