Biden Administration Blocks Khalid Sheikh Mohammed’s Plea Deal Over Death Penalty Exemption

The Biden administration successfully intervened to delay a plea agreement that would exempt Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the September 11, 2001, attacks, from the death penalty. A three-judge appeals panel paused the plea deal, initially scheduled for Friday at Guantanamo Bay, pending further legal review.

The agreement, brokered by the Defense Department, proposed life sentences without parole for Mohammed and two co-defendants. While intended to provide closure for victims’ families, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin opposed the deal, arguing that decisions about the death penalty should rest with him.

Victims’ families expressed divided opinions. Some view the plea deal as a path to closure, while others prefer a full trial to achieve justice. The next legal steps are set for January 22, 2025, leaving the matter in limbo until the next administration.

The case has faced prolonged delays, complicated by allegations of torture during Mohammed’s CIA custody.