Significant Transfers and Historical Reductions

In a significant move by the Biden administration, the U.S. military recently transported 11 Yemeni detainees from Guantánamo Bay to Oman, representing a pivotal moment in the longstanding efforts to reduce the prison's population. With this transfer, only 15 detainees remain at the facility, marking the smallest number in its 20-year history, according to official reports from the Pentagon.

No Charges and Biden's Initiative

The released individuals had not faced any formal charges during their extended detention, which spanned nearly two decades. This latest action aligns with President Biden's initiative to rekindle the Obama-era pursuit of closing the controversial prison. When Biden took office, the population at Guantánamo stood at 40, underscoring the drastic reduction that has taken place since.

Operation and Context

The Pentagon's covert operation occurred early Monday morning, just days before Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind behind the September 11 attacks, was set to arrange a plea deal in exchange for a life sentence, avoiding a potential death penalty trial. The transfer of the 11 men had been under contemplation for approximately three years and faced delays, including a proposed operation that was halted by congressional objections back in October 2023.

Notable Figures Released

Among the released were notable figures like Moath al-Alwi, a long-term hunger striker and artist, and Hassan Bin Attash, whose family ties link him to the infamous September 11 conspiracy. All released prisoners had gone through federal national-security review panels, ensuring their clearance for transfer.

Transfer Details and Constraints

It's noteworthy that U.S. law prohibits sending Guantánamo detainees back to Yemen due to the nation’s ongoing civil war, which poses significant risks for returned individuals. Instead, Oman, recognized for its stability in the Middle East, was approached for this transfer, though the specifics of the agreement, including what concessions the U.S. made, were not disclosed.

Support and Rehabilitation

The U.S. typically offers financial support to host nations for various integration efforts, including housing, education, and the monitoring of former detainees' activities. Despite the lack of detailed insights from Oman about their rehabilitation programs, U.S. officials praised the initiative as comprehensive, aimed at helping these individuals reintegrate into society successfully.

Historical Context of Transfers to Oman

This week’s transfer follows a history of transfers to Oman during the Obama administration, where 30 detainees were relocated between 2015 and 2017. Reports indicate that many of them successfully adapted and integrated into Omani society, often marrying and starting families, fostering a desirable reputation for Oman amongst current detainees in Guantánamo.

Current State of Guantánamo

As the military operation unfolded on Monday, detainees were already prepared for relocation, having undergone necessary exit interviews and processed their personal belongings. It is also interesting to note that alongside the transfer of these 11 men, three other prisoners are eligible for relocation, including individuals from Libya and Somalia.

The Future and Remaining Detainees

The atmosphere at Guantánamo remains noticeably quieter, with only 15 detainees remaining in facilities designed to accommodate far more than currently held. The prison, which first opened in January 2002 with a peak of around 660 detainees, reflects the broader political and humanitarian debates surrounding U.S. counterterrorism practices and the future of indefinite detention.

Hope for Remaining Detainees

As the Biden administration continues its delicate negotiations regarding the remaining detainees, there’s a palpable anticipation and hope among those still in custody, yearning for the same opportunities to leave Guantánamo behind and rebuild their lives.