The terror attacks of September 11, 2001, which killed almost 3,000 people in New York City, Washington DC and Pennsylvania, continue to shape global geopolitics and conflicts 25 years later, according to the Guardian's international security correspondent, Jason Burke.
A Dark Legacy Unfolds
In a discussion with Annie Kelly, Burke explains that a direct line can be drawn from that day in 2001 to much of the geopolitics and conflicts of today. The attacks, carried out by al-Qaeda under Osama bin Laden, triggered a series of wars, security overhauls, and political shifts that have had enduring consequences.
The death toll of nearly 3,000 people marked a turning point in modern history. The immediate aftermath saw the US launch the War on Terror, leading to invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, and the expansion of surveillance and security measures worldwide.
Geopolitical Consequences
Burke highlights how the legacy of 9/11 extends far beyond the immediate military responses. The attacks reshaped international relations, fueled the rise of new extremist groups, and contributed to prolonged instability in the Middle East and North Africa.
The ripple effects are still visible today, from the ongoing conflicts in the region to the shifting balance of power among global superpowers. The political rhetoric of figures like Donald Trump has also been influenced by the post-9/11 security landscape, according to Burke.
Ongoing Impact
As the world marks the 25th anniversary, Burke notes that the events of 9/11 remain a reference point for understanding current security threats and diplomatic tensions. The attacks not only changed US foreign policy but also altered the way nations approach counterterrorism and civil liberties.
The Guardian's podcast, Today in Focus, explores these themes in depth, offering listeners an analysis of how the world has been transformed by that single day.
