Aftermath Quote by Benjamin B. Ferencz
![“What has happened here [aftermath of 9/11] is not war in its traditional sense. This is clearly a crime against humanity. War crimes are crimes which happen in war time. There is a confusion there. This is a crime against humanity because it is deliberate and intentional killing of large numbers…” quote by Benjamin B. Ferencz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d6f/benjamin-b-ferencz-43385_aftermath_what-has-happened-here-aftermath-of-9-11_1058536.jpg)
“What has happened here [aftermath of 9/11] is not war in its traditional sense. This is clearly a crime against humanity. War crimes are crimes which happen in war time. There is a confusion there. This is a crime against humanity because it is deliberate and intentional killing of large numbers of civilians for political or other purposes. That is not tolerable under the international systems. And it should be prosecuted pursuant to the existing laws.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: United Nations Conference on International Law, 2005
The speaker argues that the 9/11 attacks constitute a crime against humanity rather than traditional war, emphasizing intentional mass civilian killing and the need for prosecution under existing law.
In simple terms: 9/11 is seen as a deliberate mass killing, not a war, demanding legal action.
Key Takeaway
Treat mass civilian killings as crimes against humanity.
Themes
human rights
war law
terrorism
justice
Mood
serious
determined
urgent
Type
legal
political
When to use this quote
- UN tribunals
- national courts
- policy debates
- humanitarian advocacy
Key Concepts
International law
genocide
state responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How should the international community define and punish mass civilian attacks?
- What legal mechanisms best address non‑state actors committing crimes against humanity?
A Different Perspective
Prosecuting such acts may face political resistance and evidentiary challenges.
