US suspends detainee transfers to Yemen

The failed Christmas day bombing, has prompted the US to halt transferring detainees currently held at the detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Yemen.

The White House spokesman, Robert Gibbs, said the US still remains committed to closing the facility. US President Barack Obama's top counter terrorism adviser, John Brennan, has confirmed that around 90 Yemenis are being held at Guantanamo Bay and about half were due to be sent to Yemen. Those who remain in US custody will be prosecuted in criminal or military courts.

Some US officials, also believe that two former Guantanamo prisoners were involved in the failed plane attack.

The announcement comes after mounting pressure from both Republicans and Democrats on the administration to stop Guantanamo transfers to Yemen.

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs briefs reporters at the  White House in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)