While we don't know enough about the case to comment on the specific legal arguments, we welcome, in principle at least, the split decision and relatively light sentencing of Salim Ahmed Hamdan, best known as "bin Laden's driver." With credit for time served, he could be out in five months.
By finding him only guilty of material support for terrorism, which, in press reports at least, seemed to be the most accurate definition of his involvement, the US seems to be sending a new message: while we still feel that you're either with us or against us, we have decided that when it comes to locking you up and throwing away the key, after a short hiatus, the rule of law will now at least be considered again.
Of course, there's no guarantee that this court ruling will actually be followed.
from the NYT
