The Death of Osama Bin Laden One Year Later

The Death of Osama Bin Laden One Year Later
By Demetrius Minor
5/1/2012

On May 2, 2011, the news of the death of Osama bin Laden spread like an electromagnetic wave all across the world. The world’s most notorious symbol of evil and the mastermind of the Sept 11, 2001 terrorist attacks was finally brought to justice.

Despite the division that saturates the consciousness of America, it was indeed a moment of unity as Americans complimented the extraordinary efforts of the Navy Seals Team 6 that carried out the assignment of bringing down bin Laden.

It’s been a year since this has occurred. What exactly does this mean? Undeniably, it is a feat of accomplishment for the Obama administration. The courageous call from President Obama to order the military to carry out the assignment is something that needs to be applauded from all sides of the political spectrum. And, it is important to point out that President Obama benefited from using elements set in place by his predecessor, George W. Bush, such as enhanced interrogation techniques.

One of the biggest questions looming in the mindset of many is this: Is America any safer since the death of Osama bin Laden? This is a complicated question.

As of right now, Al-Qaida is weakened and less organized. However, this does not mean that a legit threat against the United States doesn't remain. It would be naïve for individuals to assume that the national security interests of the United States are no longer targeted. As long as the United States promotes freedom and liberty, it will be a constant target to our enemies and those who seek to bring an assault on our freedoms.

Due to a vast effort on behalf of the counterterrorism agencies, the U.S. has killed nearly half of Al-Qaida’s top leaders and dismantled their networks. However, remnants of their regime still manages to be of some force. “It’s wishful thinking to say al-Qaida is on the brink of defeat,” says Seth Jones, a Rand analyst and adviser to U.S. special operations forces. “They have increased global presence, the number of attacks by affiliates has risen, and in some places like Yemen, they’ve expanded control of territory.”

Another complicated matter is where Osama bin Laden was captured—Pakistan. It calls itself an ally of the United States, but their reluctance to inform the U.S. that bin Laden was hiding within their borders and their sour response to his capture have raised many questions about their validity as an ally and if they are indeed a state sponsor of terrorism.

The death of Osama bin Laden was a symbolic victory in the War on Terror. But it also ushered in an era of uncertainty. We do not know what the next move is. We do not how Al-Qaida will retaliate. There is a fear that another terrorist leader will rise and attempt to carry bin Laden’s torch and carry out his unfulfilled goals.

One year later, the resolve of America remains strong. We are prepared to meet any threat to our sovereignty with a strong military force and community of individuals prepared to defend freedom.

In 2012 and the years to follow, the death of Osama bin Laden will serve as a kind, yet firm, reminder that good can prevail over evil and that the inhumane acts of those who live in darkness will never substitute for those who reject tyranny and oppression.
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