Iraqi Parliament Passes General Amnesty Law Offering Retrials for Terrorism Convicts
On Thursday, Iraqi lawmakers announced that the parliament has passed a general amnesty law that could potentially lead to the release of thousands of prisoners, including Iraqis convicted of launching attacks on American troops.
A copy of the law viewed by Reuters states that those convicted of terrorism leading to death, injury, or accidental killing, as well as those involved in damaging government institutions, recruiting for terrorist organizations, or joining them, can request a retrial if they claim their confessions were coerced.
Judicial sources and parliament members confirmed that individuals convicted of executing attacks against U.S. forces in Iraq might benefit from this new legislation. Legal sources estimate that around 700 individuals are currently imprisoned on terrorism charges after being apprehended by U.S. forces between 2004 and 2008 for attacks against American soldiers.
Abdul-Karim Al-Mohamedawi, the head of the Security and Defense Committee in the Parliament,
stated that the law’s priority should be to release those who fought against U.S. forces in Iraq,
describing them as “heroes” who deserve recognition for their sacrifices rather than being left
behind bars for defending their country.
However,
MP Raad Al-Dahlaki noted that the law would not immediately free prisoners, adding, “We, the
Sunni bloc in parliament, have demanded retrials and a review of all prisoners’ investigations,
and the courts will decide their fate.”
This law applies to all Iraqis convicted or accused of crimes still under investigation or trial and
allows for the review of death sentences.
Government officials and judicial sources mention that this new law aims to alleviate pressure on
overcrowded prisons, which currently hold about 67,000 inmates, significantly exceeding their
capacity of 25,000.
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