THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
March 7, 2011

New Actions on Guantanamo Bay and Detainee Policy

Please find attached a fact sheet on new actions related to Guantanamo and detainee policy, as well as the text of the executive order signed by the President today.

Statement by President Barack Obama:

“From the beginning of my Administration, the United States has worked to bring terrorists to justice consistent with our commitment to protect the American people and uphold our values. Today, I am announcing several steps that broaden our ability to bring terrorists to justice, provide oversight for our actions, and ensure the humane treatment of detainees. I strongly believe that the American system of justice is a key part of our arsenal in the war against al Qaeda and its affiliates, and we will continue to draw on all aspects of our justice system – including Article III Courts – to ensure that our security and our values are strengthened. Going forward, all branches of government have a responsibility to come together to forge a strong and durable approach to defend our nation and the values that define who we are as a nation.”