Judge Dismisses 9/11 Mastermind's Confession, Cites Concerns Over Domestic Extremism in Military

<p>Judge Lt. Col. Michael Schrama, who presides over the military commission for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the September 11 terror attacks, recently dismissed Mohammed's 2007 confession, stating it was not given voluntarily. Schrama has previously expressed concerns about a growing domestic extremism problem within the U.S. military, attributing it in part to what he described as "conservative tendencies" reinforced by "extreme right-wing groups." The ruling could delay the trial, which has already faced extensive pretrial proceedings.</p><p>Schrama set the trial date for June 2028, rejecting prosecutors' request to begin in January 2027. His decision has faced criticism, including from journalist Gerald Posner, who labeled it a "shameful prelude to the 9/11 anniversary." This scrutiny has brought attention to an essay Schrama published in 2023, titled "Creating a Codified Legal Response to Domestic Extremism in the Ranks," where he advocated for a new provision in military law to address extremist activities among military personnel.</p><p>In his essay, Schrama noted that he has observed a rising number of military members engaging in extremist activities and cited a 2021 study indicating that military personnel were responsible for 17.6% of domestic terrorism plots and attacks. He also referenced that 12% of those charged in the January 6 Capitol riot had military experience.</p><p>Schrama argued that military institutions tend to become more conservative and isolated from civilian society, making young military members susceptible to recruitment by extreme right-wing groups. He emphasized that current laws do not adequately address domestic extremism, suggesting that codifying it as a specific offense under military law would help commanders manage the issue.</p><p>Ronald Flesvig, a spokesperson for the Military Commissions Convening Authority, declined to comment on Schrama's ruling or his essay, stating it was inappropriate to discuss the judge's decision. Mohammed's case has been delayed for years, with Schrama becoming the fifth judge assigned to it in 2025.</p><p>In response to the ruling, White House senior advisor Stephen Mueller criticized the judicial system, claiming it favors predators and terrorists while failing to protect innocent Americans.</p>