Trump Commemorates 9/11, Links Iran War to Attacks

On September 10, 2023, President Donald Trump commemorated the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in a ceremony at the Pentagon, honoring victims, survivors, and first responders. He paid tribute to those who perished in the attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and on a hijacked plane in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Trump recalled a family that died in the American Airlines jet crashed into the Pentagon and recognized the family of FDNY Capt. Timothy Stackpole, who died during the rescue efforts. However, he controversially linked the tragedy to his administration's military actions against Iran, stating, “That’s why we fight today,” despite Iran having no known connections to the 9/11 attacks.

Trump was joined by First Lady Melania Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine, and former National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice. Hegseth further emphasized the connection between the Iran conflict and terrorism, asserting that U.S. forces have targeted the "world’s most prolific state sponsor of terrorism.".