On September 11, 2001, the world witnessed a horrific act of terrorism that shook the foundations of global security and stability. Nineteen al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four passenger planes and crashed them into the World Trade Centre towers in New York City, the Pentagon building in Washington, DC, and a field in Pennsylvania. The attacks killed nearly 3,000 people from 93 countries, including 24 Canadians. The United States responded by launching a global war on terror, which involved military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq and enhanced security measures at home and abroad. Canada, as a close ally and neighbour of the US, was also greatly affected by the events of 9/11 and their aftermath. The attacks not only claimed the lives of …show more content…
The reason for this is that fear of terror was already palpable among the public, and international terrorism was an immediate reality for Canadians following 9/11 for the first time ever in North America. The attack on the neighbouring United States served as a stark reminder that acts of international terrorism were not confined to distant lands. Canadians began to realize that they too could be targeted, leading to increased concerns about national security and an emphasis on preventative measures. The threat of terrorism became more tangible, leading to a heightened sense of vigilance within the …show more content…
Canada, as a close ally of the United States, faced significant challenges in the aftermath of the attacks, including the need to balance national interests with critical values such as peacekeeping and human rights. The decision to support the war in Afghanistan while abstaining from the invasion of Iraq showcased Canada's commitment to stability and counterterrorism efforts, earning it respect from global powers and solidifying its reputation as a nation dedicated to humanitarian