The family of one 9/11 victim, Brett Eagleson, has accused the Biden administration of reversing course on plea deals for alleged 9/11 masterminds for political purposes. This comes after a military court judge ruled that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin cannot rescind the offers. Eagleson, who is the president of the 9/11 Justice organization, called the situation a “horrific travesty” as families remain outraged over the fact that the death penalty could be removed as punishment for the suspected perpetrators.
Eagleson stated that the decision to rescind the plea deals was “politically motivated” and that he couldn’t recall a single 9/11 family member who thinks this is a good idea. He also referenced the US government’s previous actions, including its agreement with Saudi Arabia to cover up the Saudi role in the 9/11 attacks, and the country’s denial of benefits for first responders.
Eagleson also mentioned that on 9/11 this year, President Trump was in a New York City firehouse, where he spoke about his commitment to helping the 9/11 families achieve justice. He praised President Biden for being a new start for America, but expressed hope that he will keep his promise to do the right thing.
The plea deals would allow the three men accused of plotting the 9/11 attacks to plead guilty in exchange for being spared the death penalty. The court opinion stated that the plea deals were valid and enforceable, and that Austin exceeded his authority when he tried to nullify them. A hearing is scheduled next week at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where the defendants could plead guilty in separate hearings, with the death penalty removed as a possible punishment.