September 11, 2001, is a date etched into the collective memory of the world. A day when terror struck the United States, leaving indelible scars on the nation and humanity as a whole. The events of 9/11, marked by the horrific attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
The Twin Towers, also known as the World Trade Center towers, were two iconic skyscrapers located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. The collapse of the World Trade Center occurred on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The collapse occurred after two commercial airliners hijacked by Al-Qaeda terrorists were deliberately flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Centre complex in New York City as part of the September 11 attacks.
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ToggleThe Attacks:
The September, 11 attacks also known as the 9/11 attacks were four coordinated Islamist suicide terrorist attacks. It was carried by Al-Qaeda against United States where the collapse of the Twin tower took place.
The North Tower (WTC 1) was first hit when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into it at 8:46 a.m. It collapsed at 10:28 after burning for one hour and 41 minutes. At 9:03 a.m., the South Tower (WTC 2) was struck by United Airlines Flight 175. It collapsed at 9:58 a.m. after burning for 55 minutes. The destruction caused major devastation throughout Lower Manhattan.
More than a dozen adjacent and nearby structures were damaged or destroyed by debris from the plane impacts or the collapses. Four of the five remaining World Trade Centre structures were immediately crushed or damaged beyond repair as the towers fell. 7 World Trade Centre remained standing for another six hours. Later the fires ignited by raining debris from the North Tower brought it down at 5:21 that afternoon.
Simultaneously, American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defence. This caused widespread damage and loss of life.
In a heroic act of resistance, passengers on United Airlines Flight 93 fought the hijackers. Leading to the plane crashing in a field in Pennsylvania instead of its intended target. The target was believed to be either the U.S. Capitol or the White House. Their courage undoubtedly saved many lives.
The Aftermath:
The aftermath of the 9/11 attacks was a mixture of grief, shock, and anger. The world rallied in support of the United States, and nations around the globe expressed their condolences and solidarity. The attacks prompted an unprecedented response from the U.S. government. With the initiation of the War on Terror and the invasion of Afghanistan to dismantle Al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power.
The hijackings, crashes, fires and subsequent collapses killed an initial total of 2,760 people. Toxic powder from the demolished high-rises was dispersed throughout the city. This gave rise to numerous long-term health effects that continue to plague many who were in the towers’ vicinity, with at least three additional deaths reported. The 110-story towers are the tallest freestanding structures ever to be destroyed. The death toll from the attack represents the deadliest terrorist act in world history.
The Impact:
The impact of 9/11 extended far beyond the immediate loss of life and destruction. It reshaped the world in profound ways:
1. Security Measures: The attacks prompted a re-evaluation of security measures worldwide, leading to stricter airport security, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism efforts.
2. Domestic Policy: In the United States, the government established the Department of Homeland Security and passed the USA PATRIOT Act, which expanded law enforcement’s powers to combat terrorism.
3. International Relations: The U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, justified in part by concerns over weapons of mass destruction, had long-lasting consequences in the Middle East and beyond.
4. Surveillance and Privacy: The balance between national security and civil liberties became a central debate, as surveillance and data collection efforts expanded.
5. Global War on Terror: The War on Terror became a defining feature of U.S. foreign policy, shaping relationships with allies and adversaries alike.
Remembering the Victims:
The most significant aspect of the 9/11 tragedy is the people who lost their lives that day. It is essential to remember and honour them, as well as the countless individuals who suffered physical and emotional wounds. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of the American people.
Twenty-two years have passed since the events of 9/11, yet the impact of that day continues to reverberate in our world. It reminds us of:
The need for attention against irrationality,
The importance of unity in the face of adversity, and
The enduring spirit of those who rise above tragedy.
As we remember 9/11, let us also look to the future, striving for a world where such horrors are but a distant memory, and peace and understanding prevail.
Source: BBC