SCMP Archive: 9/11 Attacks Destroy World Trade Centre, Hit Pentagon
On September 11, 2001, a coordinated terrorist attack saw two hijacked aircraft crash into the World Trade Center in New York City, while another struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. President George W. Bush described these incidents as the most lethal in U.S. history. In a national address following the attacks, he expressed condolences for the victims and asserted that American determination would not waver. Shortly after the events, military officials were deliberating on responses to the crisis, while on September 12, speculation arose regarding missile strikes on Kabul, Afghanistan, prompting media coverage, including insights from the South China Morning Post.
Key facts
- Two hijacked planes destroyed the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001.
- A third hijacked airliner smashed into the Pentagon.
- President George W. Bush addressed the nation on September 12, 2001, saying thousands had lost their lives.
- Bush condemned the "despicable" attacks and said: "These acts shattered steel but they cannot dampen the steel of American resolve."
- The first plane struck the World Trade Centre early on September 11; a second hit 18 minutes later.
- Within 30 minutes, another airliner struck the Pentagon.
- Officials denied US responsibility for what initially appeared to be missile strikes on Kabul, Afghanistan.
- The South China Morning Post published a special noon edition on September 12, 2001.
Entities
Artists
- George W. Bush
- Greg Torode
Institutions
- South China Morning Post
- World Trade Centre
- Pentagon
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Washington
- Kabul
- Afghanistan