Trump skips New York 9/11 ceremony as Mamdani attends 25th anniversary

Family members of the 9/11 victims openly criticized the federal government and President Trump during the 25th anniversary ceremonies in New York City. Terry Strada, widow of victim Tom Strada, expressed her frustration with prior administrations for not seeking answers about Saudi Arabia's alleged role in the attacks. She accused administrations, including the current one, of protecting Saudi Arabia rather than standing with the 9/11 families.

Strada urged Vice President JD Vance to convey her message to Washington. Another 9/11 family member, a nephew of Lisa Marie Terry, called on Trump to release unredacted files implicating Saudi Arabia. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that President Trump is leading the most transparent administration in history and working to identify records related to the families' request.

The Saudi government denies any involvement in the attacks and maintains a strong alliance with the United States. Trump has had a close relationship with the Saudi government during both his terms, including an invitation for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit the White House in November.