US President Joe Biden ordered the release of 9/11 investigation files, amid possible Saudi links.
As the 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks approaches, Joe Biden
has announced the declassification of files from the investigation into the 9/11 attacks.
“The significant events in question occurred two decades ago or longer. They concern a tragic moment that continues to resonate in American history and in the lives of so many Americans,” the executive order states.
“It is therefore critical to ensure that the US maximizes transparency, relying on classification only when narrowly tailored and necessary.”
This came in response to intense pressure from Congress and victims’ families currently suing Saudi Arabia.
Brett Eagleson, whose father was among the World Trade Center victims, commended the action as a “critical first step.”
He said the families would be closely watching the process to make sure that the Justice Department follows through and acts “in good faith.”
According to the Guardian, the US administration will release the full record over six months after review.
Victims’ families have long demanded the US release the findings
of a FBI investigation into possible Saudi complicity, particularly contacts between Saudi officials and two 9/11 hijackers.
However, the Saudi government has denied any connection to the attacks.
Though many documents examining potential Saudi ties have been released, US officials have long regarded other records as too sensitive for disclosure.