They cite language in the section of the Geneva Conventions that Pentagon officials agree applies to all detainees in Iraq. That language prohibits "physical or moral coercion" against prisoners, "in particular to obtain information from them or from third parties."

"It's obvious that some of the things we're talking about are coercion: putting people in stressful conditions, sleep deprivation for substantial periods of time, hooding," said lawyer and human rights expert Sidney S. Rosdeitcher. "Those things are plainly coercion."

The two military officials who briefed reporters anonymously included one who is a military lawyer. Both refused to answer questions about how the approved techniques comply with the Geneva Conventions.

The approved techniques generally involve interrogators trying to psychologically manipulate prisoners. They include approaches familiar to television police dramas:

— Telling prisoners they will get better treatment — such as better food or roomier cells — if they cooperate.

— Suggesting that interrogators already know everything, so the detainee might as well talk.

— Repeating questions over and over.

— Staying silent.

— Playing on the prisoner's pride and ego.