The Office of Vice president’s response to the letter about September 11, 2001

Dear Ms. Azeri

The Vice President has asked me to reply to your letter regarding the brutal terrorist acts carried out against our country.

There are no words to describe the shock of the despicable murder of innocent civilians perpetrated by suicide terrorists. These atrocities represent an assault equating to an act of war on the United States and the civilized world — and will be resisted. ‘To that end, an international coalition is fighting terrorism to punish those responsible for these terrible attacks. Please know that our government will use every necessary resource to defeat and destroy this new enemy.

Federal authorities continue to work around the clock with New York City and Pentagon officials to assist in recovery efforts, Also, the President has signed into law a bill that immediately provides up to 40 billion dollars in emergency aid for recovery efforts, law enforcement, and current military operations. Just as important, our government continues to function without interruption, and our country has not, nor will not, cower in the face of attack.

Finally during this difficult period, we must remember that our Arab and Muslim American citizens love our Nation and must be treated with dignity and respect. As we have done in the past, Americans of every creed, ethnicity, and national origin must unite against our common enemies.

Thank you for taking the time to write.

Sincerely,

Erie S. Edelman

Principal Deputy Assistant to the Vice President

For National Security Affairs