Saudi Arabia Fights 9/11 Lawsuit in Federal Appeals Court
The Government of Saudi Arabia sought the dismissal of a 9/11 lawsuit in a New York appeals court as victims' families demanded the release of classified documents.
A federal appeals court in New York City heard oral arguments on October 7, 2026, regarding the Government of Saudi Arabia's effort to dismiss a long-running lawsuit filed by families of September 11 victims. The plaintiffs allege the kingdom provided financial and logistical support to the hijackers, specifically citing Saudi national Omar al-Bayoumi as an intelligence asset who assisted the plot. Saudi Arabia denies any involvement, arguing it is immune from civil litigation as a sovereign foreign government under the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act.
The hearing follows an August 2025 ruling by U.S. District Judge George B. Daniels, who denied the motion to dismiss. While a ruling from the three-judge appellate panel is expected in early 2027, the case could proceed to trial as soon as next year if the court rules for the families.
Simultaneously, victims' families are petitioning the court to compel the U.S. government to release classified documents they claim link the Saudi government to the attacks. During a commemoration ceremony in New York, family representatives criticized successive U.S. administrations for protecting Saudi interests. The White House stated that the administration of President Donald Trump is working to identify records responsive to these requests, though final declassification authority rests with the president.
