(New York, NY) – Today the Counter Extremism Project (CEP) pauses to reflect on the extremist terror attacks that occurred in the United States a quarter-century ago, and honor the individuals whose lives were so senselessly ended that day and afterward.

Said CEP’s CEO Ambassador Mark D. Wallace and Senior Director Dr. Hans-Jakob Schindler:

“We honor the 2,977 individuals whose lives were lost on September 11, 2001, due to the actions of al-Qaeda terrorists, as well as those who have since died from injuries and illnesses linked to the attacks and their aftermath. Our thoughts are also with the survivors and heroic first responders who have continued to live with the physical and psychological consequences of 9/11.

“Today is a day when looking backward is not only appropriate—it’s wise. We can never forget what occurred 25 years ago—when extremism and hate manifested in horrific violence against innocent citizens. While much has changed these last 25 years, there regrettably still exist rising movements and threats that merit vigilance, deterrence, and eradication. 

“Let today be an occasion where the memories of the past lead to a better future.”

Click here to learn more about the Couter Extremism Project (CEP).

Click here to read CEP’s latest analysis about al-Qaeda.

Click here to read CEP’s past research on al-Qaeda.