According to the Observer, up to 3,000 Iraqis, including civialians are being held in conditions that are questionable under international law.

Reports leaked have indicated that they are being gagged, bound, hooded and beaten at US camps close to Baghdad airport. Requests by the International Red Cross for access to the camps have been denied and/or ignored.

Unlike Guantanamo Bay prisoners, the status of these prisoners is clear, they are POW's, and civilians held for civil crimes, and are entitled to rights granted under the Geneva Convention.

Is this another case of "ends justifying the means" approach to human rights and dignity?