Defense Secretary Overrules 9/11 Plea Deal, Reinstates Death Penalty

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has annulled a plea agreement for the accused 9/11 mastermind, reinstating death penalties. The plea deal approved by retired Brig. Gen. Susan Escallier aimed for life sentences. Families of victims and GOP members have sharply criticized the agreement. Legal obstacles have stalled trials since 2008.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin overruled a plea agreement for the accused mastermind of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, reinstating death penalties. This decision came after retired Brig. Gen. Susan Escallier approved deals for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two accomplices to serve life sentences.

Families of 9/11 victims and Republican officials criticized the plea deal, accusing the Biden administration of circumventing full trials and possible death penalties. Although the White House claimed no prior knowledge, Austin rescinded Escallier's approval citing the significance of the decision.

Trials for the five defendants have faced delays due to legal challenges, including the inadmissibility of evidence acquired through CIA torture. Critics argue that Austin's decision could prolong emotional distress for victims' families.

(With inputs from agencies.)