Now that the ‘controversial’ “29” pages pertaining to the investigation of 9/11 in 2002 and 2003 have been unclassified, what have we learned, and why were they kept secret from the American people for thirteen years?
The only item of interest is what is not contained in the report. President Bush issued executive order number 13526 to thwart attempts by the commission to investigate Saudi involvement in the cowardly attacks which killed nearly 3,000 innocent Americans. The Bush family has maintained a close relationship with their Saudi partners, personally and professionally.
What was also not revealed to the American people is likely more important than what was.
After the attacks, all commercial and private aircraft were grounded; with a single exception. A private jet aircraft carrying members of the Saudi royal family was allowed to leave American air space. Just days after the tragedy 24 extended family members of Osama bin Laden were quickly gathered and boarded their aircraft for home.
The other omission are statements made by U.S. top security officials which stated that Bush and Cheney were warned prior to the atrocity that they were certain an imminent attack would take place upon the United States. They ignored them and went on vacation.
Records prove that high officials in the Saudi government gave aid to several of the villains involved in the horrible events. The Bush Administration panned the information, claiming it was not pertinent to the investigation.
You can read all 29 pages on the attached link labeled ‘source.’ Sadly, President Obama refused to challenge the findings of the 9/11 Commission. He said that he was satisfied with its efforts, and the matter was closed.
As horrific as 9/11 was, what occurred after the attacks were just as despicable, and even more destructive. Afghanistan and Iraq were invaded illegally because of the attacks, resulting in the loss of tens-of-thousands of lives and trillions of dollars. Together with a failed fiscal policy, these “wars” were responsible for a near depression. They are also responsible for the division of our nation which continues to grow to this day.
9/11 could have been prevented, but a negligent and lackadaisical Bush Administration ignored the signs and the advice of its security advisors.
Nothing earth shattering was revealed in the “29” pages. Most informed Americans are well aware of the close ties between the Bush family and the royal family of Saudi Arabia. The question I have is ‘why is our nation not more demanding of the Saudis?’ Why have we not required more participation from them in the battle with terrorists?
The only thing accomplished by releasing the last pages, was the initiation of more questions; questions which will likely remain unanswered.
Op-Ed
By James Turnage
The Truth With No Restrictions 