Trump says he’ll consider releasing 9/11 records after families’ request

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he will investigate appeals from the families of Sept. 11 victims to release records that may reveal Saudi Arabia's possible involvement in the attacks 25 years prior. Several families have vehemently accused a group of extremist religious leaders in Saudi Arabia of gaining influence within the Saudi government and assisting the hijackers.

Despite the Saudi government consistently denying any part in the events, these families have urged President Trump to declassify and make available the pertinent documents.

During his visit to Ireland, the president commented on the matter, stating that he would examine the requests upon his return to Washington. This follows a conversation with families on Friday during a memorial event in New York City. Terry Strada, one of the 9/11 family members who read out the names of victims at this year's remembrance, implored Trump to "tell the Saudis to stop lying."

She criticized several U.S. presidents for prioritizing the interests of the Saudis over those of the 9/11 families and the survivors. Strada emphasized that the current administration should "stand with the families and the survivors." She lamented that "betrayal after betrayal" has occurred, and expressed hope that Trump could still make a difference.