The Obama administration has abandoned efforts to put Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged 9/11 mastermind, and his co-conspirators on trial in civilian courts, saying the suspects will be tried in military tribunals at the Guantánamo Bay prison, which remains in operation despite the president’s vow to close its doors. Benjamin Wittes observes that politics led to the policy reversal, but adds that although it was a tough decision, it was the right one.
Defense & Security
What will Nasrallah’s death mean for the Middle East?
Commentary
Military Tribunals for Guantánamo Detainees
April 5, 2011