

Lawfare Daily: The 9/11 Case in Guantanamo
17 snips Sep 11, 2025
John Ryan, an expert on the 9/11 case and author of "America's Trial: Torture and the 9/11 Case on Guantanamo Bay," sheds light on the complexities of the legal proceedings at Guantanamo. He discusses the prolonged pretrial delays, logistical challenges for reporters, and the troubling intertwining of torture and justice. Ryan delves into the struggles faced by defense teams, issues of transparency, and the emotional toll on victims' families navigating this convoluted justice system. His insights reveal a gripping narrative of legal and moral dilemmas.
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America's Split Legal Personality
- John Ryan frames the 9/11 litigation as America fighting with itself over law and practice.
- The book argues prosecuting detainees after covert, extra-legal treatment creates an institutional contradiction.
Absurdities Of Reporting At Gitmo
- John Ryan recounts the absurd details of reporting from Guantanamo, like Disney-themed Gitmo T-shirts in the gift shop.
- He emphasizes remote logistics, closed sessions, and limited public documents that hinder reporters.
Prefer On-Base Coverage
- Go to Guantanamo when possible rather than watching the Fort Meade viewing site for clearer coverage.
- Bring patience because transcripts and filings often arrive redacted or after hearings.