US Readies Major 9/11 Trial of Gitmo detainees

US military prosecutors are finalizing plans for a major trial against Guantanamo’s 9/11 suspects, sources tell the New York Times. Among those likely to be charged is Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who has claimed full responsibility for the attacks. “The thinking was 9/11 is the heart and soul of the whole thing. The thinking was: go for that,” one official said.

There are 14 "high value" Gitmo detainees, but how many would be charged—and with what—is still uncertain; even if charges were disclosed soon it could be months before a trial could be held, lawyers said. For the Bush administration the case could bring closure—or put recent issues back into the spotlight, including questions of torture and prisoner abuse. (More September 11 stories.)