Meaning: The quote refers to the controversial practice of waterboarding and its alleged use on Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, a significant figure in the Al-Qaeda terrorist organization who was captured and detained by the United States. The mention of this technique in relation to Mohammed raises important ethical and legal questions regarding the treatment of detainees in the context of the global war on terror.

Waterboarding is a form of torture or simulated drowning in which a person is immobilized and water is poured over their face, creating a sensation of drowning. This technique has a long and dark history, with documented use in various historical contexts, including during the Spanish Inquisition and as a means of extracting information during the Vietnam War. It has been widely condemned by human rights organizations and is considered a violation of international law, including the Geneva Conventions.

The use of waterboarding on Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, as mentioned in the quote, has been the subject of intense scrutiny and controversy. The practice was reportedly employed by the U.S. government as an interrogation method following Mohammed's capture in 2003. The revelation of this treatment sparked a heated debate about the use of torture in the context of counterterrorism efforts, with critics arguing that such practices not only violate fundamental human rights but also undermine the moral standing of the United States on the global stage.

Journalist Jane Mayer has been a prominent voice in shedding light on the controversial use of waterboarding and other "enhanced interrogation techniques" by the U.S. government in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. In her investigative reporting, she has delved into the details of these practices and their impact on both the individuals subjected to them and the broader moral and legal implications.

The quote reflects Mayer's efforts to bring attention to the use of waterboarding on Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and to prompt a critical examination of the ethical and legal ramifications of such actions. It underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing human rights abuses, particularly in the context of national security and counterterrorism operations.

The use of waterboarding and other forms of torture in the interrogation of detainees has sparked significant debate within the United States and internationally. While some argue that such methods are necessary for extracting vital intelligence and preventing future attacks, others contend that they are not only morally reprehensible but also ineffective, as they can lead to false or unreliable information.

In the case of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the use of waterboarding and other harsh interrogation tactics has raised profound questions about the treatment of individuals detained in the context of the global war on terror. It has also prompted broader discussions about the boundaries of acceptable conduct in the pursuit of national security objectives and the responsibilities of governments to uphold human rights standards, even in the face of grave security threats.

The quote by Jane Mayer serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to grapple with the legacy of waterboarding and other forms of torture in the post-9/11 era. It underscores the importance of confronting difficult truths about the treatment of detainees and upholding the principles of human dignity and the rule of law, even in times of crisis. Mayer's work, along with that of other journalists and human rights advocates, continues to play a vital role in fostering public awareness and accountability on these critical issues.