Nearly 24 Years Later, 9/11 Victims Take Legal Fight to Saudi Arabia

A federal judge in New York has ruled that a lawsuit by 9/11 victims and survivors against Saudi Arabia can proceed. The lawsuit claims that the Saudi government helped the hijackers responsible for the September 11, 2001 attacks.

U.S. District Judge George Daniels rejected Saudi Arabia’s request to dismiss the case, stating that the plaintiffs provided enough evidence to move forward. The lawsuit alleges that two Saudi nationals, Omar al-Bayoumi and Fahad al-Thumairy, were sent by the government to assist the hijackers while in the United States. Saudi Arabia denies the allegations.

The judge said the Saudi government’s explanations were insufficient to disprove the claims. The case is proceeding under the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, which allows victims of attacks on U.S. soil to sue foreign governments if they provided material support.

Families of 9/11 victims welcomed the decision. Brett Eagleson, president of 9/11 Justice, said the ruling gives them a chance to seek justice and accountability nearly 24 years after the attacks that killed almost 3,000 people.

The case will continue in court, where plaintiffs hope to present further evidence and question Saudi officials.