Tate Zeigler or Alice James (202) 224-5972

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today released the following statement regarding a motion filed by defense attorneys for KSM seeking dismissal of charges based on Graham’s objections to using civilian courts for KSM and other 9/11 co-conspirators:

“I have been informed that the defense counsel representing Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and other 9/11 co-conspirators filed a motion to dismiss all charges based on unlawful influence by myself, President Bush, President Obama, Vice President Biden, and others.

“I strongly believe in the right to counsel, and fully understand the defense attorneys representing those accused of the 9/11 attacks have to advocate vigorously for the interest of their clients.

“As a United States Senator, I have to advocate for the best policies for the country as a whole.  I support an “all of the above” approach regarding the War on Terror, where Article Three civilian courts as well as military tribunals are used to resolve terrorism cases.

“However, I strongly believe the attacks of 9/11 were not a common crime, but an act of war.  And in certain situations, military commissions and the law of war should apply. That is why I have consistently and vigorously advocated for the use of military commissions in situations involving top al-Qaeda leadership.

“I have done so consistent with the duties of a United States Senator, no more or no less."

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