Federal Judge Allows 9/11 Families’ Lawsuit Against Saudi Arabia to Proceed

A federal judge ruled that Saudi Arabia can be held accountable in a civil lawsuit for allegedly aiding the September 11 terror attacks, marking a significant legal victory for families of the victims after two decades of litigation. Brett Eagleson, whose father died in the attacks, described the ruling as a "historic, landmark decision," citing evidence that at least 13 Saudi officials linked to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs supported the hijackers through Saudi consulates and embassies. The court found reasonable grounds to believe that Saudi citizens Omar al-Bayoumi and Fahad al-Thumairy were sent by the Saudi government to assist the hijackers, challenging Saudi Arabia's claim of sovereign immunity. Judge George Daniels emphasized the court’s jurisdiction to consider the plaintiffs’ arguments, allowing the case to proceed despite Saudi Arabia's longstanding defense. The families and their advocates have called the prolonged legal battle a necessary fight for justice, highlighting continued efforts to hold Saudi Arabia responsible. Saudi officials have denied the allegations, but the ruling revives hope for accountability nearly a quarter-century after the attacks.