The prisoner deal has come under criticism from Republicans who oppose making deals with the Taliban. The administration also failed to give Congress the required 30-day notice for the release of detainees. Speaking to NBC News, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said the administration had acted because Bergdahl’s life was in danger.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel: “I think America’s record is pretty clear on going after terrorists, especially those who take hostages, and I don’t think what we did in getting our prisoner of war released in any way would somehow encourage terrorists to take our American servicemen prisoner or hostage. This was essentially, in our opinion, to save the life of Sgt. Bergdahl. As I said before, we had information that his health could be deteriorating rapidly. There was a question about his safety. We found an opportunity. We took that opportunity.”

The five Taliban prisoners arrived in Qatar on Sunday. Under the terms of the deal, they will be forced to remain in Qatar for one year.