Washington: US President Donald Trump has said he would consider releasing records related to the September 11, 2001, terror attacks after families of victims sought greater clarity over Saudi Arabia’s alleged links to the attacks.
The request comes more than two decades after the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people and became one of the defining tragedies in modern US history.
Families seek greater clarity over Saudi links
Families of those killed in the attacks have continued to seek the release of information they believe could shed light on whether Saudi Arabian individuals or institutions had any role in supporting those responsible.
Trump’s latest remarks indicate that the administration could consider making additional records public in response to those longstanding demands.
9/11 records remain closely watched
The question of whether more documents should be released has remained a sensitive issue in the United States. Families and other groups seeking transparency have argued that access to additional records could help clarify unanswered questions surrounding the attacks.
Any release of records could therefore attract considerable public attention, particularly if the documents contain information concerning alleged connections involving Saudi Arabia.
Trump signals willingness to consider request
Trump has indicated that he is willing to look at the request from the families. However, the supplied report does not establish that a decision has been made to release the records or that the documents would confirm Saudi government involvement in the attacks.
The development has renewed attention on the continuing efforts by 9/11 families to obtain information and accountability more than 25 years after the tragedy.