Khalid Cheikh Mohammed

Khalid Cheikh Mohammed, often referred to as KSM, is a Pakistani national known for being the principal architect of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States. Captured in 2003, he became infamous for his portrayal in media, particularly a widely circulated photograph of him in custody, which showcased his disheveled appearance. Mohammed had been detained at Guantanamo Bay since 2006 after being held in secret CIA prisons, where he allegedly endured extensive torture, including waterboarding. He is currently facing charges of terrorism and murder of nearly 3,000 people related to the 9/11 attacks. His legal proceedings have been mired in controversy, particularly concerning the admissibility of evidence obtained through torture. In July 2024, a U.S. appeals court annulled a plea deal that would have allowed him and his co-defendants to plead guilty in exchange for life sentences, thereby postponing their capital trial.