A top House committee, the House Armed Services Committee, has initiated an investigation into the U.S. government's plea deal with three alleged terrorists connected to the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. The committee's Chairman, Mike Rogers, has written to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin requesting documents related to the plea deal, expressing deep concern over the terms and conditions of the agreement.
The plea deal in question involves Khalid Shaikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi, who are accused of providing support to the hijackers responsible for the 9/11 attacks. The details of the plea agreements have not been publicly disclosed, leading to outrage among victims' families and lawmakers.
Rogers described the news of the plea deal as 'unconscionable' and a 'gut punch' to many affected by the tragic events of 9/11. He criticized the Biden administration for allowing such an agreement, stating that it sends a dangerous message to terrorists worldwide.
The Pentagon confirmed that the three alleged plotters, who were detained at Guantánamo Bay, had entered into pretrial agreements with the U.S. government. This development has prompted calls for transparency and accountability in handling cases of terrorism.
Amid growing scrutiny, the House Oversight Committee has also launched a parallel investigation into the plea deals, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Victims' families, represented by groups like 9/11 Justice, have expressed deep concern over the lack of transparency and access to critical information.
The investigation by the House committee and the broader scrutiny of the plea deals reflect a bipartisan effort to ensure that justice is served and that the memory of the victims of 9/11 is honored. The outcome of these investigations will likely have far-reaching implications for how the U.S. government handles cases involving terrorism and national security.