The American Department of Defense announced the repatriation to Tunisia of Ridha Ben Saleh Ben Mabrouk al-Yazidi, detained in the infamous Guantanamo detention center. This transfer follows a “rigorous interagement examination process”, without any precision being given on a possible recognition of guilt.
A Tunisian never charged, but detained since 2002
According to the New York Times, Ridha al-Yazidi, Tunisian citizen, has never been charged since his incarceration, which dates back to the opening of the center in 2002. He had received his transfer authorization over ten years ago, but his effective repatriation only took place this week.
Located in an American naval base in Cuba, Guantanamo was designed as part of the “war against terrorism” launched after the September 11 attacks. This detention center, a symbol of international controversy, is often criticized for prolonged detentions without indictment and the use of interrogation methods assimilated to torture.
Guantanamo: 26 detainees still awaiting an uncertain future
Today, 26 detainees remain locked in Guantanamo, 14 of which are eligible for the transfer. Last December, three other detainees had already been repatriated. Despite the gradual reduction in the number of prisoners, the camp, created under the administration of George W. Bush, remains a sensitive subject.
For Tunisia, the repatriation of Ridha al-Yazidi raises questions about the reintegration of citizens who have experienced long detention in such conditions. This transfer nevertheless marks a stage in bilateral cooperation between Tunis and Washington, and could have repercussions on the debates concerning the final closure of Guantanamo.
Read also: from Guantanamo to Tunisia: the impossible redemption
