Americans mark 25 years since September 11 attacks amid enduring grief, reflection

Key Points:

• Americans commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, honoring nearly 3,000 victims killed when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a Pennsylvania field.
• The Ground Zero ceremony in New York included Vice President JD Vance, four former U.S. presidents, victims' family members reading the names of those lost, and a new moment of silence for those who died from illnesses related to toxic dust exposure after the attacks.
• Memorial events also took place at the Pentagon and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, with President Donald Trump expected to speak at the Pentagon ceremony.
• The attacks profoundly influenced U.S. foreign policy, domestic politics, and public attitudes toward security, while also leading to increased prejudice against Muslim Americans and immigrants from Muslim-majority countries.
• Beyond the initial casualties, many first responders and rescue workers have died over the years from 9/11-related illnesses, with the New York City Fire Department losing over 900 members in total, including 26 deaths this year alone.