Asharq Alawsat runs a lengthy piece about the re-integration into Saudi society of a Saudi detained in Guantanamo. Without necessarily accepting the psychological analysis presented—because it is not coming from an objective, disinterested source—I do find the steps the Saudi government is taking to effect the re-integration interesting. Read the whole piece.

Life After Guantanamo
Turki Al-Saheil

Riyadh, Asharq Al-Awsat- Many have argued that returnees from Guantanamo would not be able to resume their normal daily lives upon returning home, especially in light of the state of despair that they experienced as a result of their detention at the US facility for long periods of time.

Their cases knew no legal terms; and assumed a political nature, making their return back home only possible by way of diplomatic efforts. This was the reason behind the sense of uncertainty and despair prevalent among the hundreds of detainees at Guantanamo.

This grim situation caused some to attempt suicide, having lost hope of getting out of the detention facility. However; upon their return, the Saudi Interior Ministry had prepared a series rehabilitation programs designed to raise their spirits and reintegrate them back into society.

Mishal al Harbi was received in Riyadh as part of the first groups of detainees to return home after he sustained a stroke that left him partially paralyzed and in need of a wheelchair.

The US detention facility has witnessed numerous suicide attempts. Psychological experts maintain that suicide attempts reflect the state of absolute despair of life. Mishal al Harbi, who until recently had been receiving treatment at a hospital in Medina, has managed to overcome his feelings of despair and will be getting married to a Saudi women.

The impending marriage was blessed by officials at the Interior Ministry. However, before al Harbi could marry, he had to complete a number of rehabilitation programs, which the Interior Ministry carries out with all Guantanamo returnees.

But the situation with Mishal, who celebrated his wedding last month, had required more time by reason of the incapacity he suffered while inside the US detention facility.

In Medina, al Harbi lives with his large family, and his wife, whom he sees as the most beautiful thing in his life. He leads a quiet and normal life in the al Duwaymah neighborhood, which is one of the oldest districts in the city.

Assisted by some of his brothers, al Harbi entered into the reception area of his home in his wheelchair and spoke at length about his future plans.

Today, al Harbi aspires to raise a family and become a productive member of society. His chief worry is to find a job that could make him self-reliant. Al Harbi, who left school at the intermediate stage, wishes to establish a small business venture that could provide a fixed income for him and his immediate family.
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