(CNN) A Moroccan man held in Guantánamo Bay for nearly 20 years has been transferred from the US detention facility to his native country of Morocco, the Department of Defense announced Monday, in what is believed to be the first transfer of a detainee in the Biden administration. The steps to repatriate him began in the Obama administration but stalled in the Trump administration. "The United States commends the Kingdom of Morocco for its long-time partnership in securing both countries' national security interests. The United States is also extremely grateful for the Kingdom's willingness to support ongoing U.S. efforts to close the Guantanamo Bay Detention Facility," the statement said. On June 17, the Department of Defense notified Congress of its intent to repatriate Nasir, a senior administration official told reporters Monday.

Source: CNN July 19, 2021 11:26 UTC