In brief
The Pentagon announced the transfer of 11 prisoners from Guantánamo Bay to Oman, leaving only 15 detainees remaining. This move is part of a larger effort to close the controversial detention facility, which has seen its population dwindle since President Biden took office.
The U.S. military has completed the transfer of 11 Yemeni detainees from Guantánamo Bay to Oman, significantly reducing the number of prisoners at the facility to just 15. This transfer marks a historic moment, as the population at Guantánamo is now at its lowest since the facility opened in 2002, reflecting a bold initiative by the Biden administration to draw down the controversial detention site.The Pentagon confirmed the operation on Monday, revealing that none of the transferred individuals were ever charged with a crime during their two-decade detention. Instead, the remaining prisoners include those who have either been charged with or convicted of war crimes. At the start of President Biden's tenure, there were 40 men in custody, and this transfer is seen as part of a commitment to ultimately close the prison, echoing efforts initiated during President Obama’s administration.The release of these prisoners comes just days before Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, often referenced as the mastermind of the September 11 attacks, is expected to plead guilty to his role in the tragedy as part of a plea deal. The timing of this operation highlights the complexities and strategic considerations involved in managing the remaining detainees.Among those sent to Oman were Moath al-Alwi, known for his endurance as a long-term hunger striker and his creative endeavors involving model boats made from scrap materials found in the prison. Also included were Abdulsalam al-Hela and Hassan Bin Attash, individuals whose backgrounds intertwine with significant historical events.The transfer has been orchestrated through careful national-security evaluations, aiming to ensure the safety of the individuals as well as stability in the region. Due to the ongoing civil war in Yemen, the U.S. is restricted from returning prisoners to their home country; hence, Oman was chosen as a suitable alternative.While U.S. officials have not disclosed what concessions or guarantees were made with Oman, this transfer represents a crucial step towards redefining U.S. policy on detention and reflecting a commitment to advancing human rights and rehabilitation for former detainees.
