Justice Served: Secretary Clinton's Statement on Osama bin Laden's Death
As President Obama announced last night, justice has been served, and the world has taken a step closer to peace and security. Today, Secretary Clinton expressed her thoughts and prayers to the families of those killed in Osama bin Laden's campaign of terror, while also honoring the bravery and commitment of those who worked tirelessly to bring him to justice. In her statement, Secretary Clinton emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and partnerships with allies around the world, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, to stop al-Qaida and its syndicate of terror.
Key Takeaways:
- Secretary Clinton offered her thoughts and prayers to the thousands of families whose loved ones were killed in Osama bin Laden's campaign of terror, including those from the embassy bombings, USS Cole attack, and 9/11.
- The Secretary acknowledged that nothing can make up for the loss of the victims, but expressed hope that their families can now find comfort in the fact that justice has been served.
- Secretary Clinton praised the bravery and commitment of the men and women who served in tracking down and bringing Osama bin Laden to justice, from troops and intelligence experts to diplomats and law enforcement officials.
- She highlighted the importance of continued cooperation with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and urged the Taliban to abandon al-Qaida and participate in a peaceful political process.
- The Secretary emphasized that the battle to stop al-Qaida and its syndicate of terror will not end with the death of bin Laden, and that the US must renew its resolve and redouble its efforts.
- She announced that the US will continue to support Afghanistan's transition and the Afghan-led political process to isolate al-Qaida and end the insurgency.
- Secretary Clinton stated that the US will press forward, bolstering partnerships, strengthening networks, and investing in a positive vision of peace and progress.
Statistics:
- Osama bin Laden was responsible for the killings of an estimated 9,500 people worldwide (Source: US Department of Defense).
- The US has been working with Pakistan to put pressure on al-Qaida and its leadership, resulting in the arrest of over 60 al-Qaida operatives (Source: US State Department).
- The US has invested over $1 billion in civilian aid to Pakistan since 2009, with a focus on economic development and counter-terrorism initiatives (Source: US Agency for International Development).
Sources:
- "Secretary Clinton on Osama bin Laden Death" (Federal News Service, 2011)
- "US Department of Defense" (US Department of Defense website)
- "US State Department" (US State Department website)
- "US Agency for International Development" (US Agency for International Development website)