Americans Mark 25 Years Since September 11 Attacks

Americans marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with commemorations across the country.

In New York City, seven moments of silence were observed to mark the times of the attacks, including the first at 8:46 a.m. A seventh bell was rung to commemorate those who have died from 9/11-related illnesses, a group that includes more than 9,400 people. The week leading up to the anniversary featured retrospectives, essays, and analyses reflecting on the event and its aftermath.

Some coverage focused on personal narratives and critiques of American policy in the years that followed. NATO also marked 25 years since 9/11, invoking its Article 5. One cyber expert suggested the U.S. is returning to pre-9/11 vulnerability after 25 years of safety. Journalists shared their experiences from the day of the attacks, recalling the smoke plumes over New York and the efforts to document the unfolding events.

Families of victims continue to navigate enduring grief, with some reflecting on their duty to give back. The attacks killed nearly 3,000 Americans in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.