The shock and grief of September 11, 2001, have not diminished for the families and friends of those lost in the terror attacks. Now, a recent announcement from the Biden administration has reopened wounds, as it reveals a plea deal has been struck with three key figures behind the tragedy. The decision has ignited a firestorm of outrage and feelings of betrayal among those who have waited decades for justice.
Biden Administration Strikes Plea Deal
On Wednesday, the Defense Department revealed that plea agreements were reached with Khalid Shaikh Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi. These men, held at Guantanamo Bay since 2003, played pivotal roles in the planning and execution of the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people. While the terms of the plea deal remain undisclosed, sources report that the death penalty has been removed as an option in exchange for life sentences.
“In exchange for the removal of the death penalty as a possible punishment, these three accused have agreed to plead guilty to all of the charged offenses, including the murder of the 2,976 people listed in the charge sheet,” a letter to families stated.
An Outpouring of Anger from 9/11 Families
The announcement has sparked a visceral response from many 9/11 family members who feel they have been denied justice. Retired NYPD officer Jim Smith, whose wife, Moira, perished in the World Trade Center, expressed his fury over the deal.
“I feel like I was kicked in the balls,” Smith told the New York Post. He further added, “The prosecution and families have waited for 23 years to have our day in court to put on the record what these animals did to our loved ones. They took that opportunity away from us.”
Smith is not alone in his outrage. The sentiment of betrayal resonates deeply with members of the New York City Fire Department, who lost 343 of their own during the attacks.
A Sense of Betrayal Among First Responders
The Uniformed Firefighters Association President, Andrew Ansbro, voiced the collective anger and disappointment of New York City firefighters.
“Being a survivor, I could say on behalf of New York City firefighters—especially the survivors of the terrorist attack who are living with the long-term health effects of walking down Ground Zero—we feel betrayed and disgusted that these terrorists were offered a plea deal which will allow them to live into old age with contact with their families,” Ansbro said.
He emphasized the ongoing toll of the attacks, noting, “Three hundred and forty-three New York City firefighters died on that day, and hundreds have died since then—we’re still losing three firefighters a month to the effects of 9/11 Ground Zero.” The notion that the attackers will not face the death penalty has left a profound sense of injustice among those who have sacrificed so much.
The Long Wait for Justice
Kathy Vigiano, a retired NYPD officer whose husband, Det. Joseph Vigiano, was killed in the attacks, echoed these feelings of anger and disappointment.
“I am angry and disappointed that enemy combatants who killed thousands of Americans in our homeland are now able to exploit the US judicial system to their benefit, receiving support from American taxpayers for shelter, food, and healthcare for the rest of their lives,” Vigiano lamented.
The Question of Justice
James Brosi, president of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association, lost his firefighter father to cancer linked to the aftermath of the attacks. He reflects the deep frustration shared by many who have awaited justice for over two decades.
“We’ve been asked to be patient because the American government wanted to get this right, because we were told that we were the more civilized group of people that we wanted to make sure that if justice was served, that it will be served properly,” Brosi stated. “And after 23 years, what justice has been served?” he asked, questioning the outcome of the lengthy process.
The plea deal with the masterminds of the 9/11 attacks has left a lasting impact on the victims’ families, first responders, and all who lived through that fateful day. As the nation reflects on the decisions made, the cry for justice and closure remains strong and unresolved.
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