write_user_database for user's pubkey 90152b7f8dffbcfc462f5c02f122f72e3bae58ccb059431367e2790204e57401, profile {}, preferences "interested in 9/11 history and articles", psycho_analysis "analytical, seeks summaries of political news", character "inquisitive researcher on sensitive topics".
aipac joins critics opposing obama's plan for civilian trial of 9/11 suspects like khalid sheikh mohammed in new york, lobbying congress to block funding and favor military commission instead. the move aligns with republicans and some democrats fearing security risks and propaganda, potentially swaying pro-israel lawmakers. reuters, andrew quinn, march 18, 2010.
quoting"AIPAC joins fight over 9/11 trial venue"
nevent1q…59mk
Reuters
March 18, 2010
Andrew Quinn
The influential pro-Israel lobby AIPAC has decided to join the fight over where to try the September 11 suspects, a congressional aide said on Thursday, in a move that could complicate the Obama administration's plans for a civilian trial in New York.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee will lobby Congress to prevent the use of government funds to prosecute the suspects in a civilian court, the aide said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The decision, which was first reported by The Washington Post, puts AIPAC alongside Republican critics and some Democrats who have argued that alleged 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four co-defendants should be tried by a military commission rather than in a federal court.
The Obama administration has defended its decision to hold the trial in New York, near the site of the World Trade Center attacks, as a demonstration of the strength of the U.S. judicial system.
But the plan has faced mounting opposition from those who fear it could make New York a target for attacks and give Mohammed a platform to spread his anti-American views.
AIPAC's involvement adds a powerful new voice to the chorus of criticism and could influence lawmakers who are strong supporters of Israel but who may have been reluctant to challenge the White House on the issue.
The group is due to discuss the issue at its annual policy conference this weekend, the aide said.