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A worthy 9/11 remembrance  – Walt Zlotow

11 September 2026 AIMN Editorial, Walt Zlotow, West Suburban Peace Coalition  Glen Ellyn IL, https://theaimn.net/a-worthy-9-11-remembrance/

On the 25th 9/11 anniversary we should also ponder victims and cost of America’s War on Terror – designed and implemented to reshape the Middle East in America’s image in response to and revenge for the attacks. 

Estimates from the Brown University Costs of War project place the toll at 4.5–4.7 million people since 2001, including ~940,000 direct deaths (combatants, civilians, journalists, aid workers) and 3.6–3.8 million indirect deaths from disease, malnutrition, and health complications.

U.S. military and contractor deaths: About 7,074 U.S. military deaths and 8,189 contractor deaths 

Costs according to warcosts.org

Total cost: $8+ trillion since 2001

Breakdown:

• Direct military operations: ~$3.2 trillion.
• Pentagon budget increases: ~$1.8 trillion.
• Veterans care (projected through 2050+): ~$2.2 trillion.
• Homeland Security expansion: ~$1.1 trillion.
• Interest on war debt: ~$1.1 trillion

On 9/11 Remembrance Day Americans should urge its government to turn away from senseless war whether it be against Iran, Venezuela, Somalia, Yemen, Nigeria, Cuba, little unarmed boats plying the Caribbean or other locals we’re not informed of. That would be a noble way to honor the victims of the senseless violence perpetrated on America 25 years ago today.

September 13, 2026 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | USA, weapons and war