Bill Clinton reveals CIA operation against Osama bin Laden before 9/11

Former US President Bill Clinton, now 80, revealed in a recent interview on WABC's "Cats Roundtable" that he authorized the CIA to neutralize Osama bin Laden prior to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Clinton stated that he prioritized stopping the al-Qaeda leader's activities, although he preferred that bin Laden be captured alive.

According to the former president, the intelligence agency had developed a specific operational plan that he believed had a high probability of success. However, the mission was aborted at the last moment due to concerns regarding potential collateral damage and the high risk of civilian casualties. Clinton noted that while he did not criticize the decision at the time, given the significant risks involved, he expressed frustration and admitted wishing in hindsight that the United States had done more to capture the terrorist leader.

Clinton also reflected on the day of the attacks, stating that he realized almost immediately upon seeing the second plane strike the Twin Towers that bin Laden was responsible. He maintained that he had identified bin Laden as a primary threat to national security well before the tragedy occurred.