The 9/11 Commission Report: Final Report Of The National Commission On Terrorist Attacks Upon The United States : Book Review

"The 9/11 Commission Report" offers a thorough account of the events leading up to the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, as well as the subsequent response by the United States government. Authored by the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, this comprehensive report examines the intelligence failures, policy weaknesses, and organizational deficiencies that allowed these attacks to take place.

The book begins by providing a detailed recounting of the events that unfolded on that fateful day in September. It delves into the actions of the hijackers and the profound impact of their coordinated strikes on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. From there, it explores the historical context leading up to the attacks, including the rise of international terrorism and the specific vulnerabilities of the United States.

One of the most compelling aspects of this report is its meticulous analysis of the intelligence failures that occurred in the years preceding 9/11. It reveals systemic issues within intelligence agencies, such as failures in information sharing and analysis. It also highlights the shortcomings in the institutional response to the terrorism threat, emphasizing the need for improved coordination and communication among government entities.

Throughout the report, the National Commission takes a balanced and highly detailed approach in evaluating the government's response to the attacks. It examines the immediate actions taken by the Bush administration and the subsequent policy changes implemented to prevent future acts of terrorism. Additionally, the report provides recommendations for further action, stressing the importance of increased resources, improved intelligence gathering, and enhanced security measures.

In conclusion, "The 9/11 Commission Report" is an invaluable resource for understanding the events of September 11th and the subsequent government response. It offers an in-depth analysis of the intelligence failures and policy weaknesses that allowed these attacks to occur, emphasizing the necessity of improved communication and coordination among government agencies. This report serves as a significant reminder of the importance of national security vigilance and the continuous need to learn from past mistakes.

What are readers saying?

The book "The 9/11 Commission Report" by the National Commission has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Some readers laud the report for its comprehensive analysis of the events surrounding the 9/11 attacks, considering it a valuable tool in understanding the complexities of the terrorist plot. These readers appreciate the extensive research conducted by the National Commission and find the report's objective examination of intelligence failures and subsequent national security recommendations commendable.

On the other hand, some readers feel that the report falls short in certain aspects. They believe it predominantly focuses on the failures of the intelligence community and government, omitting a thorough exploration of other factors that could have contributed to the attacks. These individuals assert that the report lacks a broader perspective and neglects to address the underlying geopolitical issues that led to the emergence of extremist groups.

Furthermore, a number of readers criticize the report's writing style, describing it as dry and excessively bureaucratic, which hindered their engagement with the material. They suggest that the report could have been condensed and presented in a more accessible manner. Additionally, some readers express disappointment in the heavy redaction present in the report, as it limits transparency and impedes a complete understanding of the events.

Despite these critiques, many readers recognize the significance of the report as a historical document. They acknowledge the thorough investigation conducted by the National Commission and find value in the insights and recommendations it offers. Overall, while "The 9/11 Commission Report" has received mixed reviews, it remains an important resource for those seeking an in-depth understanding of the 9/11 attacks and their aftermath.