72 prisoners seen as threats to the U.S. will be let go in Afghanistan

In Afghanistan, 72 out of 88 prisoners, who are seen as threats against America, are being let out of Bagram jail because of insufficient evidence.

According to Reuters, this move could potentially cause an even bigger rift between the U.S. and Afghanistan. This news comes after President Hamid Karzai refused to sign a security deal, which would shape the U.S. military presence when most foreign troops leave sometime this year.

The prisoners that are being held are seen as threats because they have killed and wounded U.S. troops, as well as used explosive devices on Afghan civilians.

Karzai ordered all the Bagram prisoners that are innocent to be released, however US General Joseph Dunford, commander of NATO forces, heavily objected saying that it was a breach of agreement when the Bagram jail was handed over to Afghanistan in March.

A group of senators met with Karzai to stress that this would be a major “step backward,” according to Sky News.

In a statement made to Reuters, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said that “time will tell” if the release of those 72 prisoners will affect the signing of the security deal.