US transfers Guantanamo detainees to Oman

The US government has transferred 11 Yemeni detainees held at Guantanamo Bay to Oman, the largest transfer yet as part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts to close the military prison.

Following a historic process, only 15 prisoners remain in this prison in Cuba, the lowest figure in its 20-year history.

The transfer follows new developments in the ongoing trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who is accused of involvement in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Mohammed is expected to plead guilty during the trial to avoid the death penalty.

Among those transferred from Guantanamo are famous prisoners such as Muaz Alawi and Sharqawi Ali Hajj, one of whom is known for his model boats made from prison items, and the other for his long-term hunger strike.

Guantanamo Bay prison was opened in 2002 to hold terrorism suspects. However, its legality and human rights record have been the subject of serious debate internationally.

Although the Biden administration has pledged to implement a plan to close it, the process faces political and legal obstacles.

The prison's inmate population peaked in 2003, when it held about 680 people.