Mike Rogers, the chairman of the Republican-controlled house armed services committee, has demanded all documents relating to the plea deal be handed over, and announced an investigation had been launched into the “unconscionable” arrangement.
“I, along with much of our nation and Congress, are deeply shocked and angered by news that the terrorist mastermind and his associates who planned the Sept 11 2001 terror attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 innocent people, were offered a plea deal,” Mr Rogers wrote.
A ‘gut punch’ to the families
“Tragically, the news is a ‘gut punch’ to many of the victims’ families. Deals like this give hope to terrorists throughout the world that America is not willing to hold the worst of the worst accountable for their wicked crimes.
“In short, this deal signals willingness to negotiate with terrorists who deliberately harm Americans.”
Tom Cotton, the Arkansas senator, described the proposed deal as “disgraceful”, adding that he had introduced legislation which would guarantee the men would be put on trial and face the possibility of the death penalty.
The deal was also condemned by Brett Eagleson, the president of 9/ll Justice, a grassroots group representing bereaved families.
“While we acknowledge the decision to avoid the death penalty, our primary concern remains access to these individuals for information,” he told Fox News.
“These plea deals should not perpetuate a system of closed-door agreements, where crucial information is hidden without giving the families of the victims the chance to learn the full truth.”
Mr Austin’s decision to take over the case was a significant rebuff for Ms Escallier, a retired brigadier general who had spent 32 years in the army.
She was appointed by the defence secretary to replace Mr Wood last August.
During her career, she provided legal advice underpinning the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, and was the senior lawyer in the campaign to defeat the Islamic State.
