US Transfers Gitmo Prisoner to Italy

Washington, 06 Syawal 1437/11 July 2016 (MINA) – The Pentagon announced Sunday that it has transferred a Yemeni prisoner at Guantanamo Bay to the Government of Italy.

Fayiz Ahmad Yahia Suleiman, 41, had been recommended for transfer in 2010. He has never been charged, despite spending 14 years in the prison.

“The United States is grateful to the Government of Italy for its humanitarian gesture and willingness to support ongoing US efforts to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility,” KUNA reported, quoting a statement released bythe Pentagon.

“The United States coordinated with the Government of Italy to ensure this transfer took place consistent with appropriate security and humane treatment measures,” it added.

Up to 78 prisoners remain in Guantanamo.

The Guantánamo prisoners were rounded up overseas when the US became embroiled in wars in Afghanistan and Iraq following the September 11 attacks on New York and Washington.

The US has struggled to persuade other countries to accept the prisoners because of concerns that they could launch attacks and America’s unwillingness to accept them on the US mainland. (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)