Emily J Horne, the National Security Council spokesperson, said the process would involve “close consultation with Congress,” and participation by the Defense, State and Justice departments. There are 40 prisoners at the detention centre, all brought during the George W. Bush administration. The Obama administration reduced the prison population by another 200 through relocations to other nations. Obama’s efforts to close the prison ran into intense opposition on Capitol Hill, especially among Republicans adamant that none of the wartime prisoners be transferred to facilities in the United States. Congress responded to Obama’s efforts by outlawing the transfer of any Guantánamo detainee to the United States for any reason — not for trial, imprisonment or medical treatment.

Source: bd News24 February 13, 2021 06:11 UTC