On a cloudy morning at the site where the Twin Towers once stood, families of 9/11 victims called on President Donald Trump to release unredacted files that could link Saudi Arabia to the attacks. Vice President JD Vance, along with former presidents and other officials, attended the memorial ceremony in New York.
Speaking from the stage, Terry Strada, whose husband, Tom, died in the attacks, criticized past administrations for shielding Saudi Arabia instead of aiding the 9/11 families. She specifically mentioned President Barack Obama’s veto of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) in 2016, which Congress later overrode, allowing families to sue Saudi Arabia.
Strada urged President Trump to demand Saudi accountability. Another speaker asked Vice President Vance to support the families and survivors. The remarks received applause from attendees.
The gathering marked the 25th anniversary of the attacks, renewing demands for Saudi accountability. The families claim Saudi nationals Omar al-Bayoumi and Fahad al-Thumairy aided hijackers. The 9/11 Commission noted these connections but found no evidence of Saudi government support. Recent investigations and legal proceedings have brought renewed focus on these links.
In August 2025, U.S. District Judge George Daniels allowed the families’ claims against Saudi Arabia to proceed, highlighting sufficient evidence to move toward trial. Families see this legal progress and additional intelligence as opportunities for the release of more records.
Family members, like Passananti, who lost his father in the attacks, express frustration with the lack of governmental support. They seek accountability and justice for the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil.
In past statements, Trump acknowledged ongoing questions about the attacks but has not confirmed plans to release more documents. Families like McGinley, who lost his brother, continue to feel the lasting impact of that day. First responders’ families also gathered to honor those who later died from related illnesses.
As Jen Nilsen, who lost her husband, expressed, the pain remains. She emphasizes the importance of remembrance, urging future generations to never forget the events of 9/11.
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