Bilal Hussein Wait Continues

We're still listening for more reportable news in the case of Bilal Hussein, the Associated Press photographer accused of being a terrorist. Right now, his fate rests in the hands of an Iraqi judge, who is expected to decide soon (we're planning for early January, based on guidance we've received) if the evidence presented by the U.S. military against Hussein is solid enough for a trial. The AP is in a bind, knowing much but saying little. The news agency has been gagged by an order that Hussein's Dec. 9 investigative hearing be kept secret, and obviously doesn't want to say anything that could tip the scales any further against its employee. After seeing the evidence against him, the AP continues to stand by Hussein.

For signs this case is driven by politics, check out this Dec. 23 article on the Web site of Harper's Magazine. Attorney Scott Horton writes that he got an update on Hussein's case from a source at the Pentagon who had been briefed on Hussein's hearing:

"The Pentagon is convinced that regardless of the evidence presented and the arguments made, Bilal Hussein will be convicted based on its influence wielding and pressure tactics. 'The judge announced on the opening day that he would recommend conviction and refer the matter to the Central Criminal Court of Iraq. This was before any evidence or arguments had been produced. Our folks were elated, but concerned that his somewhat rash statement would undermine the credibility of the proceedings. They had expected him to say this only at the end of the proceedings.'"

Important detail: Horton actually worked for the AP on Hussein's case, a fact he disclosed previously in this article. Horton's Pentagon source appears to be someone sympathetic to Hussein, or at least to the idea that the man deserves a fair trial. We wonder when the other side will begin leaking fresh information.

Here's our last post on Bilal, with links to our earlier coverage.