Guantanamo Bay still holds 15 detainees as anniversary approaches

As Guantanamo Bay approaches its 25th anniversary, the detainee count stands at 15 after a late-term transfer of 11 prisoners to Oman during the Biden administration. Of the remaining inmates, only two have been convicted; seven are formally charged, and three are eligible for Periodic Review Board assessments but not yet for relocation. Notable figures include Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, whose 2007 confession was excluded as involuntary, and Mustafa Ahmed al-Hawsawi, both facing capital charges that were once tied to a now-canceled plea deal.

Other detainees such as Ali Abdul Aziz Ali and Ramzi bin al-Shibh have had statements suppressed due to allegations of torture or mental-fitness concerns. Several prisoners are cleared for transfer but lack a willing third-country, while others, like Abu Zubaydah, remain detained on national-security grounds. Ongoing legal battles and periodic review decisions continue to shape the uncertain futures of those still held at the base.