Today marks 11 years since al-Qaeda struck the World Trade Center, killing nearly 3,000 innocent men and women.
As time goes on, many Americans wonder if the historically tragic event could have been prevented, and today, The New York Times presents new evidence claiming just that. Former President George W. Bush was given six direct warnings leading up to September 11, 2001, showing that an attack could take place.
Starting in the spring of 2001, the CIA began presenting evidence to the then Commander-in-Chief that an attack was in the works.
By May 1, the Central Intelligence Agency told the White House of a report that “a group presently in the United States” was planning a terrorist operation. Weeks later, on June 22, the daily brief reported that Qaeda strikes could be “imminent.”
Just a short time later, Bush was given even more information. One of the operatives connected to Osama bin Laden reported on June 29:
The planned near-term attacks [will] have “dramatic consequences,” including major casualties. On July 1, the brief stated that the operation had been delayed, but “will occur soon.” Some of the briefs again reminded Mr. Bush that the attack timing was flexible, and that, despite any perceived delay, the planned assault was on track.
Closer to the attacks, an even more detailed warning was sent out by the CIA.
On Aug. 6, 2001, President George W. Bush received a classified review of the threats posed by Osama bin Laden and his terrorist network, Al Qaeda. That morning’s “presidential daily brief” — the top-secret document prepared by America’s intelligence agencies — featured the now-infamous heading: “Bin Laden Determined to Strike in U.S.”
In the aftermath of the tragic events, George Bush and his camp adamantly denied claims that they knew any such attack would take place.
As a New York-based company, the stories of September 11 and its aftermath hits close to home. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the tragic events.
SOURCE: NYT
