Networks argue for televising Moussaoui's trial; U.S. says that could affect witnesses

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) -- A trial that could reveal Osama bin Laden's internal operations should be televised, a lawyer for accused Sept. 11 accomplice Zacarias Moussaoui argued Wednesday.

Moussaoui, the only person accused of conspiring with bin Laden and the hijackers to kill and maim thousands, sat at the defense table in a green prison jumpsuit.

His lawyer, Edward MacMahon Jr., was joined by TV networks in seeking to overturn a ban on cameras. He argued only briefly during the hearing, telling U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema that his client believes televising the proceedings would provide "an added layer of protection" in guaranteeing a fair trial.

Brinkema said she would rule no earlier than Tuesday.

"The entire nation has a direct interest in these proceedings, if not the entire world," said Lee Levine, an attorney representing the television networks. He contended that the ban is unconstitutional.

Justice Department Attorney Elizabeth Collery said the government is concerned that witnesses' testimony would be affected if they knew they were on live television. That, in turn, she said, could affect the jurors.