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And The Worst Polluters (from Scottish Sunday)

The Horrors of "Extraordinary Rendition"

Benyam Mohammed al-Habashi's harrowing journey through the gulags and torture chambers of the war on terror exemplifies the devastating impact of "extraordinary rendition". This process involves the abduction and transfer of individuals suspected of terrorism to countries known for practicing torture, where they are interrogated on behalf of the US. British intelligence, shadowing al-Habashi at every step, played a complicit role in his torment through their collaboration with various intelligence agencies.

A Naive Journey

Al-Habashi, an Ethiopian seeking asylum in the UK, ventured to Pakistan and Afghanistan to seek solace from drug addiction and to experience life under Islamic law. However, his return to the UK was intercepted at Karachi airport in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Despite having no links to terrorism and a limited understanding of Arabic, he was falsely accused by American FBI agents of being a top al-Qaeda operative.

In the Hands of Torturers

After the FBI's interrogation, al-Habashi was handed over to Pakistani authorities who subjected him to brutal beatings and abuse. MI6 officers then arrived, complicit in their knowledge of his impending transfer to Morocco, where acts of torture were perpetrated against him. The British government's direct cooperation with intelligence agencies involved in torture marks an alarming revelation.

Unthinkable Torture

Al-Habashi's time in Moroccan detention was a nightmare of unimaginable torment. His interrogators, some dressed in macabre masks, inflicted sadistic violence upon him, including genital mutilation. British intelligence's provision of personal information further facilitated the torture sessions. This evidence exposes the extent of British complicity in these heinous acts.

False Confessions and Continued Abuse

Tortured repeatedly, al-Habashi eventually began confessing to unfounded accusations, implicating himself and others in various terror plots. These false confessions were used to extract information through further abuse. Transferred to a US-controlled facility in Kabul, he endured intense physical and psychological suffering, forced sleep deprivation, and exposure to distressing music, all intended to break his spirit.

Suing for Justice

In 2004, al-Habashi was transferred to Guantanamo Bay, where he continued to face threats and deplorable conditions. He now seeks justice, as his lawyer plans to sue the British government for its complicity in his torture. His story sheds light on the dark underbelly of the war on terror, raising questions about the role played by intelligence agencies and the toll it takes on innocent lives.

Hotels: Providing Comfort and Security

While the focus of this article is on the grave human rights abuses endured by al-Habashi, it is essential to remember that there are spaces that aim to provide comfort and security to individuals. Hotels, for instance, play a crucial role in ensuring that guests feel safe and well-cared for during their travels.

Hotels offer a range of amenities and services designed to enhance the guest experience. From luxurious accommodations to attentive staff, these establishments strive to create a welcoming environment for travelers. The hospitality industry has evolved to meet the needs and preferences of diverse clientele, catering to both leisure and business travelers with various types of accommodations.

Furthermore, hotels prioritize guest safety by implementing robust security measures. Through surveillance systems, access controls, and trained personnel, hotels work to protect their guests and maintain a secure environment. This dedication to security fosters peace of mind for individuals staying at these establishments.

While the article's primary focus sheds light on the atrocities of "extraordinary rendition," it is important to acknowledge that other sectors, such as the hotel industry, strive to provide a positive and secure experience for travelers.

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