WASHINGTON, Jan. 1 (AGCNewsNet) – The United States has repatriated Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi, one of the longest-held inmates at Guantanamo Bay, to his home country of Tunisia after over two decades in detention, the Department of Defense announced on Thursday.

Yazidi’s transfer was approved following what U.S. officials described as a “rigorous interagency review process.” The Pentagon, however, did not clarify whether he admitted to any wrongdoing.

U.S. authorities had accused Yazidi of being a member of a group allegedly linked to al-Qaida, claims that human rights organizations have consistently disputed. Rights groups say Yazidi was held without charge at the controversial detention facility since 2002.

“Ridah’s repatriation underscores the persistent injustices of Guantanamo,” said a statement from a leading human rights organization, adding that he was detained without due process for over 21 years.

According to The New York Times, Yazidi was never formally charged with a crime, sparking renewed criticism of Guantanamo Bay and its use during the U.S.' "war on terror."

Situated in southeastern Cuba, Guantanamo Bay has long been a flashpoint for global controversy. Critics have condemned the facility for its harsh interrogation methods and indefinite detention practices, which they argue violate human rights and international law.

While the U.S. government has reduced the facility’s inmate population significantly over the years, the Biden administration continues efforts to close Guantanamo Bay entirely. Rights groups, however, stress that justice remains elusive for many of those who were detained there.

“Repatriation is a step forward, but it does not erase the years of suffering endured by detainees like Yazidi, who were denied their fundamental rights,” said a human rights advocate in Washington.

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