Before President Obama could finish delivering his speech, people poured into the streets to celebrate this newly announced feat. Osama bin Laden was dead. After all the money invested and lives lost, changed or tainted, the 10-year manhunt was finally over.
Many media outlets began capturing images of scores of people assembling outside of the White House, in Times Square in New York City, and at Ground Zero celebrating Bin Laden’s death.
Osama bin Laden, the leader of al Qaeda, mastermind of the September 11th terrorist attacks and the world’s most wanted man for almost a decade, was killed in Pakistan as the result of a U.S. military operation, President Obama announced to the nation Sunday night. This historic moment comes about four months before the 10th anniversary of the Sept 11, which were executed by the al Qaeda network helmed by Bin Laden and prompted the start of a war on terror that has dominated U.S. foreign policy. This man was in charge of orchestrating something many Americans are still coping with today. Boss. America still has not bounced back. America has shifted its focus on how to become a safer place and fight for our freedoms. However, the death of Osama shows these durable efforts were not in vain.
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It was very strange hearing the news. I wasn’t sure if it was a hoax or misgiving information from U.S. Intelligence because we’re still looking for “weapons of mass destruction.” I can admit I was thrilled to see my Twitter timeline and Facebook feed being flooded with commentary about the death of Osama bin Laden. I can admit I did find some of the commentary humorous. I can also admit I was relieved for many of the families impacted by the devastating blows of Sept 11. Like me, people were either excited about this death or even felt uneasy. In spite of the news, many people sided with the celebratory team rejoicing and proud to be an American.
Should Americans actually be celebrating in an outward way? What does this say about our country? America is thought to be one of the most arrogant countries. From our ideologies- or lack there of- America often leaves a bad taste in our international counterparts’ mouth. After the news announced Sunday night, I’m sure the images have not altered the perceptions.
I can’t tell you how to receive the news of bin Laden’s death. Nobody can.
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While this will not be the end of terrorism, this will definitely close a chapter in U.S. history. And open another one. Nevertheless, for all the many lives lost, extra security precautions at the airport and various strategic plans of national security, this will definitely be something for the books.
Terrorism will not die because of the death of bin Laden. There are many others out plotting to strike and I’m sure this news motivates them even more. The battle is far from over. It’s important to understand the death of one man does not eradicate the thought process of terrorist groups like those in al Qaeda. Bin Laden is not only the one who constitutes a threat to the United States. So while we’re dancing in the streets, it is important to remember when one chapter like this closes the next one begins.
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Americans celebrate Bin Laden’s death outside the White House.
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New Yorkers celebrate Bin Laden’s death.
