The U.S. Defense Department has repatriated Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi to Tunisia, one of the last detainees at Guantanamo Bay, where only 26 remain. Al-Yazidi was among the first prisoners held since 2002. The situation at Guantanamo continues to attract criticism from human rights advocates, while President Biden’s commitment to closure remains unfulfilled.
On Monday, the United States Department of Defense announced the repatriation of Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi, one of the last remaining detainees at Guantanamo Bay, back to Tunisia. Al-Yazidi, who was among the initial group of prisoners sent to Guantanamo in 2002, was deemed eligible for transfer following a thorough interagency review. In a statement, the Department emphasized, “In consultation with our partner in Tunisia, we completed the requirements for responsible transfer.” Currently, only 26 detainees remain at the facility, which once housed nearly 800 individuals at its peak. The detention center was established in response to President Bush’s declaration of a “war on terror” after the September 11 attacks. Human rights organizations have persistently criticized the conditions within the facility, alleging acts of torture and other abuses. UN representatives have labeled Guantanamo as a site of “unparalleled notoriety.” Despite President Biden’s prior commitment to close the prison, it remains operational, with 14 of the remaining detainees indicated as eligible for transfer.
Guantanamo Bay has been a contentious military prison since its establishment in the early 2000s. Initiated by President George W. Bush, it was intended to hold suspected terrorists in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Over the years, the facility has faced extensive criticism for human rights violations, including allegations of torture and poor living conditions. While there has been a gradual reduction in the number of detainees over the years, the prison continues to operate, and calls for its closure persist despite pledges from political leaders, notably President Joe Biden.
The repatriation of Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi marks a significant step in the ongoing process of reducing the number of detainees at Guantanamo Bay. Despite the release of some individuals, the facility remains mired in controversy and legal challenges over its existence and treatment of prisoners. The United States continues to face pressure from human rights organizations to address the issues surrounding the detention center, while the future of Guantanamo remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
