The U.S. government’s decision to accept a plea deal with Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, and two of his accomplices, sparing them from the death penalty, has ignited a firestorm of criticism. This decision, seen by many as a painful perversion of justice, has left families of the victims, who lost nearly 3,000 loved ones on that tragic day, feeling angry and betrayed by their own government.
The outrage is understandable. The case has lingered for 21 years in a military tribunal plagued by delays caused by unscrupulous defense attorneys, a revolving door of judges, and inept prosecutors. While proof of Mohammed’s involvement was never in question – he confessed to his heinous deeds, boasted about his role in the 9/11 operation, and a mountain of evidence supported his involvement – the government’s handling of the case has been fraught with blunders.
Former President Barack Obama’s decision to drop the military case in favor of a federal court trial, despite the families’ wishes, only exacerbated the situation. This decision effectively rescued the defendants from potential convictions and executions. A subsequent act of Congress and public outcry forced Obama to reverse course, but his executive order to alter the Manual for Military Commissions further deepened the legal quagmire.
President Trump, recognizing the need for accountability, refused to negotiate with terrorists and pushed for the prosecutions. However, upon assuming office, President Biden seemed to revert to Obama’s approach, allowing for endless delays and effectively stalling the legal process.
The plea deal, seen by many as a sign of weakness and a dangerous precedent, sends a chilling message to terrorists around the world. It suggests that they can commit acts of terrorism against Americans with impunity, knowing that they will not face the ultimate consequence.
The victims of 9/11, who paid the ultimate price for this act of terror, deserve justice. Their sacrifice should not be in vain. This plea deal, a national disgrace, tarnishes their memory and leaves a stain on the American conscience. America today is a sadder place, a place where terrorists, even those responsible for the worst attack on American soil, are spared the ultimate punishment.
