The London-based human rights organisation said reports that Gina Haspel, 60, had directed the alleged CIA “black site” in Thailand “raise extremely serious concerns”.

It added that detainees held there were subjected to torture and enforced disappearance, and that Haspel could have a possible role in the destruction of evidence of such crimes under international law.

“This announcement comes on the heels of President [Donald] Trump’s recent vocal support for torture, |and means all indicators are flashing red,” said Erika Guevara-Rosas, Americas director of Amnesty International.

“These allegations are serious and must be subject to close scrutiny. No one should be appointed to a position where they could interfere in the investigation of or facilitate the concealment of crimes under international law,” she said.