Kathmandu— The 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks is approaching, prompting reflection on a hypothetical scenario where the events did not unfold. If the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had banned box cutters and other security measures were in place, the hijackers might have been thwarted, preventing the deaths of over 3,000 Americans and altering the course of American and world history significantly.

Domestic Policy Changes

Without the attacks, the creation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2003 would have been unlikely. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a subsidiary agency under DHS, also might not have come into existence. This absence could have led to less racial profiling and fewer xenophobic policies that followed post-9/11.

Military Interventions

The invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan would likely have been averted without 9/11, as George W. Bush's administration might not have had the political will to pursue such extensive military engagements. The absence of these wars could have prevented the destabilization of the Middle East and the rise of ISIS.

International Terrorism

The attacks that followed 9/11, including those in Bali, Moscow, Madrid, and London, might not have occurred on such a scale without the initial shock. The absence of these events could have led to a more stable international security environment.

Political Shifts

The hyper-nationalist sentiment that emerged post-9/11 fueled policies under President Trump and contributed to far-right movements within the GOP. Without this backdrop, political discourse might have been less polarized and more focused on issues like education, climate change, and healthcare.

As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, there are signs that the country may be moving beyond the fear and mistrust that characterized its aftermath. Recent political victories by candidates advocating for a different direction suggest a potential shift in American politics.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.