Some Of Detainees Said To Be Between Ages Of 13, 16
AP, May 5, 2003
http://www.local6.com/
WASHINGTON — The Pentagon released 22 prisoners Monday from the high-security compound for terrorist suspects in Cuba, possibly including some teenagers.
U.S. HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS |
| Information about U.S. human rights violations and related issues is included in Religion News Blog for the following reasons: Apologetics Index deals with cults, sects, and related issues – including religious freedom and other human rights. America’s goverment frequently accuses countries (including, for example, France and Germany) that protect their citizens against destructive and/or fraudulent cults of violating ‘human rights.’ In addition, the USA even threathens those countries with economic boycotts should they not accept America’s views on these issues. This makes the USA the only country in the world that attempts to strong-arm other countries into accepting its views on the cults it supports – a primary reason why this issue is addressed by the publishers of Apologetics Index. Ironically, while America chides other countries for alleged human righs violations, Washington consistently and deliberately refuses to address America’s dismal record of human rights violations. The Bible condemns the use of such differing measures. As Christians, the publishers of Apologetic Index believe that they (and other Christians) should address human rights issues. The publishers of Apologetics Index agree with those who believe that America’s attitude toward international law – including its fight against the International Criminal Court, its use of torture, and its inconsistent application of the Geneva Conventions – presents a serious threat to the international community. As members of Amnesty International, the publishers of Apologetics Index are outspoken critics of America’s manifold human rights violations. They encourage their fellow Christians to address these issues, keeping in mind the Bible’s two great commandments. |
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An defense official interviewed by The Associated Press had said he believed juveniles were among those to be released. News that several boys between the ages of 13 and 16 were among the prisoners drew criticism earlier from human rights groups and a call for their immediate release.
Some of the detainees have been held for a year and a half without charges and without access to a lawyer.
Military officials would not say where the 22 prisoners were taken. Most of the prisoners released earlier from Guantanamo Bay have been flown to Pakistan or Afghanistan and set free.
Defense officials say the release has nothing to do with a complaint by Secretary of State Colin Powell, who has been pressing the Pentagon to move faster in determining the fate of those held at the U.S. Navy base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
About 660 prisoners from 42 countries are held, many captured during the war against al-Qaida in Afghanistan. Officials have declined to identify them, their countries or any other details about them, including the exact number held.