Why is Guantanamo prison still open?

In October 2026, Al Jazeera reported on the ongoing operation of the Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba, despite the conclusion of the war in Afghanistan. Established post-9/11 and following the US invasion of Afghanistan, the prison once held hundreds of detainees suspected of terrorism ties. Despite the end of major combat operations in Afghanistan over a decade ago, Guantanamo Bay remains open, raising questions about its continued necessity and legal justification. Journalist Noor Wazwaz explored the reasons behind this enduring situation, highlighting concerns over both international perceptions and the operational purpose of the facility.