Politics

Puerto Rican José Padilla, Once Labeled 'Enemy Combatant,' Set for Release in Two Months

Published Sep 11, 2026, 4:00 PM ASTvia El Nuevo Día

At a glance

  • José Padilla to be released from detention on November 12
  • 24 years in military and civilian custody
  • Declared 'enemy combatant' by former US President George W. Bush

Why this matters: The release of José Padilla, a Puerto Rican man held for 24 years, highlights the long-term impact of the US 'war on terrorism' on individuals from the island.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, Puerto Rican José Padilla is scheduled to be released on November 12, following 24 years in military and civilian detention.

Padilla was designated an 'enemy combatant' by then-President George W. Bush at the start of the post-9/11 'war on terror.' The brief report does not provide further details about the terms of his release, his current whereabouts, or additional background on his case beyond confirming the scheduled release date and the historical designation that led to his prolonged detention.

SourceEl Nuevo Día

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