U.S. Repatriates Fourth Guantánamo Detainee This Month, Leaving 26 Remaining
The Pentagon has repatriated Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi to Tunisia, marking the fourth transfer from Guantánamo Bay this month. There are now 26 detainees remaining at the facility, down from a peak of around 800. The U.S. faces ongoing criticism regarding human rights abuses at the detention center, despite prior commitments to close it under President Biden.
On Monday, the Pentagon announced the repatriation of Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi, one of the remaining detainees at Guantánamo Bay, to Tunisia. Mr. al-Yazidi had been detained at the facility since its inception on January 11, 2002, under the George W. Bush administration. He was deemed eligible for transfer following a thorough interagency review process. With this repatriation, the total number of detainees at Guantánamo has decreased to 26, down from a peak of approximately 800 prisoners.
Guantánamo Bay detention facility was established as part of the U.S. government’s response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, declaring a “war on terror.” Over the years, the facility has faced severe criticism from human rights organizations, which have accused the U.S. of conducting torture and violating human rights standards. The current administration, led by President Biden, had previously committed to closing the facility, yet it remains operational. As of recent reports, of the 26 prisoners still held, 14 are eligible for transfer, three for review, and several are undergoing military trial processes.
In summary, the recent repatriation of Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi marks the fourth transfer from Guantánamo Bay this month, reflecting ongoing efforts to reduce the detainee population. However, significant challenges remain, with a variety of individuals still held and a history of human rights concerns that continue to draw international condemnation. The fate of the remaining detainees at Guantánamo Bay remains a contentious issue, intertwined with broader discussions about U.S. national security and human rights obligations.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
