Washington, May 2 (IANS) US leaders across the political divide have hailed the killing of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, mastermind of the Sep 11, 2001 terror attacks, in a US-led operation in Pakistan.
Former US president George W. Bush, who ordered a massive manhunt for the elusive leader after 9/11, described the news as a ‘momentous achievement’.
‘The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done,’ Bush said in a statement.
Bush’s predecessor Bill Clinton added: ‘This is a profoundly important moment not just for the families of those who lost their lives on 9/11 and in Al Qaeda’s other attacks but for people all over the world who want to build a common future of peace, freedom, and cooperation for our children.’
Members of US Congress were briefed on the news by Vice President Joe Biden, according to a Senate aide.
Senator Dianne Feinstein, chairperson of the Senate Intelligence Committee, related the news to mourners at a memorial service for political consultant Kam Kuwata.
Feinstein said Obama was announcing it on TV as she spoke. However, she announced the news well before Obama began to speak.
(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in)
