Defense Department Transfers Guantanamo Detainee, But Recommends New Criteria for Future Detainees

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First praised today’s announcement that the Trump Administration has transferred Guantanamo detainee Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed Haza al Darbi to Saudi Arabia, but expressed concern about reports that the Department of Defense has recommended new criteria for sending additional detainees to the detention facilities at Guantanamo.

“We are pleased to see that the Department of Defense finally fulfilled the plea agreement reached with al Darbi and transferred him out the facility at Guantanamo Bay, and hope that this signals a new willingness of the Trump Administration to consider transferring additional detainees who remain at the prison,” said Human Rights First’s Raha Wala.

The Department of Defense today also delivered recommendations to the White House regarding criteria for possible transfer of detainees to Guantanamo.  Human Rights First notes that national security leaders from both sides of the aisle have long opposed sending additional detainees to Guantanamo, as this would undermine efforts to close the detention facilities.

“No detainees have been transferred to Guantanamo in almost a decade, and there’s no reason to transfer any new ones there now.  Countless retired generals, admirals, and national security and intelligence experts have supported the closure of Guantanamo Bay, noting that its operation harms our nation’s security,” added Wala.