The United States is commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks with a solemn memorial ceremony at the site of the former World Trade Center in New York.
Families of victims, government officials, former presidents and other dignitaries gathered at the memorial to remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the attacks of September 11, 2001.
The ceremony included moments of silence marking key events of that tragic morning, including the crashes of the hijacked aircraft and the collapse of the World Trade Center towers. Another moment was dedicated to people who later died from illnesses linked to the attacks.
Among those attending the New York commemoration are Vice-President JD Vance, former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, former President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama.
The September 11 attacks began when hijackers took control of four commercial aircraft. Two planes were deliberately flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York.
A third aircraft struck the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., while a fourth crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to overcome the hijackers.
A total of 2,977 people were killed in the attacks, which profoundly changed the United States and had lasting consequences around the world.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend a separate remembrance ceremony at the Pentagon to honour those who died when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the building.
The Pentagon attack killed 184 people, including passengers and crew aboard the aircraft as well as military and civilian personnel at the building.
The anniversary ceremonies provide an opportunity for Americans to remember the victims, honour their families and reflect on the lasting impact of one of the darkest days in modern US history.
