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'We knew our lives would be forever changed': Fmr. CIA Director Brennan reflects on 9/11

11 SEP 2026 · 12:00 ET·11:07·13.6K VIEWS·0.2× USUAL PACE

Former CIA Director John Brennan and Jen Psaki reflected on the 25th anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 attacks. Brennan, who was the CIA's Deputy Executive Director at the time, recalled receiving news of the attacks and the immediate realization that al-Qaeda was responsible, profoundly changing the CIA's mission. Both reflected on the unity and fear experienced in the aftermath, the impact on public service, and the solemnity of a president's role on such anniversaries. Brennan also expressed concerns about the loss of institutional knowledge within intelligence agencies and the redirection of resources.

WHY IT MATTERS

The 25th anniversary of 9/11 serves as a moment to reflect on national unity, the evolving nature of threats, and the sacrifices made by intelligence professionals to ensure national security.

ALSO DISCUSSED

The video also touches on the raid that killed Osama bin Laden in May 2011, with Brennan recounting his experience in the Situation Room and Psaki recalling the public's reaction and the media's handling of the announcement.

JOHN BRENNAN 9/11 CIA JEN PSAKI OSAMA BIN LADEN

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