New York, Sept 11:
The United States on Friday marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, with memorial ceremonies, moments of silence and tributes to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks.
The anniversary comes as Americans reflect on an event that transformed the country’s security policies, foreign relations and public life. Ceremonies include wreath-laying, flag-flying, readings of victims’ names, vigils and volunteer activities.
On September 11, 2001, al-Qaida extremists hijacked four commercial aircraft. Two planes crashed into the World Trade Centre in New York, another struck the Pentagon near Washington, and the fourth crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers and crew members attempted to storm the cockpit.
The attacks led to the US-led war on terrorism, the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, expanded surveillance and intelligence powers and major changes to air travel and security procedures. The anniversary is also being used to remember first responders and people who later died from illnesses linked to exposure to toxic dust at Ground Zero.