Should W.H. release photo of Osama bin Laden's body?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The White House has pictures of Osama bin Laden's body. But we're not sure when or if we'll see them.
A senior U.S. official tells CNN that the White House received three sets of pictures on Monday: One set of bin Laden's body at a hangar in Afghanistan where it was flown after he was killed, one set from bin Laden's burial at sea aboard the USS Carl Vinson and one set from the raid in which he was killed, showing the compound and several corpses - including one of his sons - but no pictures of bin Laden at the scene where he was gunned down.
The tricky part for the White House is that the picture that includes the most recognizable image of bin Laden's face has been described as extremely gruesome and graphic. It reportedly shows a massive open bullet wound across both of his eyes. It's very bloody and not exactly acceptable for the front page of a newspaper or a morning television show. But whether to show it is a decision that should be made by the newspaper editor or the morning show producer.
Most Americans want to see the pictures anyway. More than half of Americans, 56%, say the United States should release a picture of Osama bin Laden's body, according to a new CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll. Just 39% say it should not be released.
The other consideration is whether releasing the picture would further inflame Muslim extremists and members of al Qaeda. It probably would, but how much madder could they get? Bin Laden is dead, gunned down in his house by United States Navy SEALS. They're probably already pretty steamed.
A final decision on the photos has not been made, but there is "growing consensus" to release them. A decision could come as early as Tuesday.
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Tom in Fort Lauderdale:
I paid a trillion dollars to have bin Laden killed. To have the will of the American people overridden by the whims of radical Muslims would be a disgrace. Osama deserves less than nothing. Publish the photos as a testament to the will of the American people. We all saw the disgraceful images of 2900 who died on 9-11 as Arabs cheered.
Bob in Kansas City, Missouri:
Yes, release them. Let the rest of his minions see what their ultimate fate should be when justice comes calling. What goes around comes around.
Matt in Rockford, Illinois:
No. He had his ten years of "fame." Let it be so as not to keep his name and image "out there" for him to be seen as a martyr.
Joe:
I'd like to suggest a compromise. They should show the photos and videos to senate and congressional leaders. They can then report back to their constituents on their authenticity and hopefully squash any conspiracy theories.
Preston in Seattle:
Remember the gruesome images the world endured on 9/11 of people jumping to their deaths from the Twin Towers? Those were some of the first images of 9/11 that started it all. Go ahead and show his dead body to close the 9/11 chapter.
A.J. in Branson, Missouri:
They released photos of the Hussein brothers after the firefight that led to their deaths, so what's the problem? Osama bin Laden will end up a martyr in the radical muslim world regardless of whether the photos are released or not.
Ghias:
I think they should but they should take time before releasing anything. We are dealing with the world where our troops are there and most people are ignorant. Osama’s supporter’s emotion is running high now, what is the point of fueling it and put our troops in danger? We wanted Bin Laden dead and he is dead. Mission accomplished.
Tim in Fort Lauderdale:
No. We don't need to convince anyone who will only claim that the photos are fake anyways. Don't be tricked into giving propaganda to the enemy for their recruiting efforts. He is dead. Enough said.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Too late, the video is already on the net. It won't be long before it is on al Jazeera, FoxNews, CNN, etc. And no, I will not get you a copy.
Why? Jack, why are you so obsessed with graphic, violent images? Just a few weeks ago, a lunatic christian from Florida burnt a koran and led to unnecesary violence and death. Now you want even more violence and death?
Why don't go and kill a squirrel if you are so morbid?
Of course, Jack, it's the only way to shut up these fools who think that this is a hoax. I see many people down here in Texas who think it's all a load of bull and that Bin Laden is alive. If they showed the photo it would finally make all these anti-Obama freaks down here have a big heaping of crow.
Terrence Cain
Big Spring, TX.
Ok we can show our own people jumping out of the towers on september 11, 2011 but you want to balk at the thought of showing us pictures of Osama bin Laden. I don't think that there is a question here show us the pictures.
Thank you,
Kevin Carr
Mount Ida, Arkansas
Yes Jack, I can just see how the Birther's will react if a photograph is not released showing a dead Osama Bin Laden. It will go on forever just like Obama' s birth certificate
Even though it would give me extreme pleasure to see Osama bin laden face with a bullet hole in his head, I don't think it is necessary at this time to release the photos. There will always be a group of people who will not believe that he is dead no matter what proof they have to prove otherwise. But if Donald Trump feels there is a conspiracy, then I guess the president has no choice but to release the photos, just to shut him up.
Absolutely! The US did not hesitate in releasing photos of Saddam or his sons or any other high value targets. Enough of the BS! time to deliver! The families of our dead soldiers & our current serving certainly deserve it.
Yes, if you want to put to rest any conspiracy theories you need to show the documentation. Otherwise it will considered a hoax. Even then certain people will still think it's a fake.
It shouldn't have to be necessary, but with the country as cynical, fearful and ghoulish as it is, it would be a gesture to satisfy most people and allow life to move on. I understand not wanting to inflame radical muslim sentiments, but one cannot allow this to become more fodder for any wannabe Donald Trump. It took courage to make the decision to go ahead with the operation, a picture shouldn't be as difficult.
There are the arguments that showing the photos will anger Osama's followers more, but how can you anger them more than they already are?
If the photos are not shown, there will surely be groups that will doubt whether Osama was actually killed. These people doubt everything.
I suppose it depends on how gruesome the photos are. That shot in the eye sounds like it would ruin my appetite. I vote, no. They always show the gruesome stuff when I am starting to go eat.
No, to release an image will only inflame his followers and serves no useful purpose. Let him drift into obscurity of human madness where he belongs.
No. There is nothing to prove. Bin Laden is dead. End of story. Now if they have the long form death certificate, that might be valuable.
I have no problem believing this guy is dead. I trust our President,
the Navy Seals, and all others who actually witnessed the mission,
and the burial. If anyone needs to see a picture, they are just
ghoulish or they cannot be convinced of any successes from this
Administration. If a surviving family member wants to see for
themselves, they should be allowed a private viewing, I doubt
anyone would ask.
Yes. The Arab world thrives on crazy conspiracies, and if you don't show them the pictures, they'll come up with all sorts of wacky stuff about him still being alive.
It's kind of like dealing with whole countries made up of nothing but Birthers.
Probably not. The demise has been adequately confirmed by our government, and that is sufficient for me.
There are issues with posting photos of the deceased, that probably should be avoided.
The government can share those with other governments, under appropriate conditions, if they truly want that verification.
Yes...but please give the taxidermist time to finish his mount.
Tickets to the September 11 showing go on sale July 4.
Yes obama should release all photos of ben laden since taxpayers have spent 1.9 trillion dollars and killed a million people in iraq and afghanistan trying to find him in the middle of pakistan.
It doesn't matter if they do or do not release the photo. The nut jobs out there will not believe he is dead even if they saw it happen in person. Spare us the gory details.
I fail to see any merit to showing additional gore. WE have grownout oft the need formost-mortem photos of criminals as were made of the James gang,etc.
Jack,
We do have to release the photo(s) or this will enter the netherworld of hoaxes and conspiracies.
If the trove of data taken from the compound by the SEAL team yields clues to any other terrorist figure's whereabouts they will be taken out, too.
If nothing else, this event should generate a LOT of chatter among terrorist groups and I hope they get as careless in their transmissions as Bin Laden's trusted inner circle did.
I hope his death generates an internal power struggle and they start killing each other.
The threat of terrorism is unchanged but given the changes of the "Arab Spring", it certainly seems to be less attractive to Arab youth than it did ten years ago.
Why depose a political dictator only to put in a much worse 'Islamic' leadership who will take them back to the 12th century?
OBL's death is a huge turning point in history and it is the best outcome to a horrible situation he himself created.
Dan V
Capitola CA
Yes, I think that a picture of the corpse of Bin Laden should be released. One picture should be sufficient. Just enough to demonstrate that he really did buy the farm. Right next to that picture should be placed a picture of Mr. Zawahiri, overprinted with the word "Next."
No. He had his ten years of "fame" let it be so as not to keep his name and image "out there" for him to be seen as a martyr.
Matt
Rockford
No......let's be done with this and move on. We need to stop seeing images of him, dead or alive.
For what purpose? Show the pictures to other world leaders and to respected members of the press, but the public does not need to seem them at this point. Maybe after the world has settled down a bit, release the photos for historical reasons.
Yes, if for no other reason than to keep the conspiracy theorists from saying he isn't dead. After all there are still numbnuts who think George W. Bush was responsible for 9/11....... yes, there really are nuts who believe that 9/11 was an "inside job". And these people vote......God help us.
no .let wiki leaks do it . their not afraid to spill their guts about our classified stuff . or are they afraid they will be targeted.let them take the hit!
Yes. However gruesome it might be it cannot possibly be more so than the images of the aftermath of bin Laden's numerous terrorist acts. Those whose friends and loved ones were his victims deserve the opportunity to see for themselves that justice was finally done. Not to mention the rest of us, here and abroad, whose country's experienced great death and destruction as a result of this soulless butcher's actions. And let his henchmen see what is in store for them.
It's almost too late already. It's like they needed time to create/photoshop the 'proof'.
Something tangible should have been produced immediately. Even Americans doubt the credibility of this story. Imagine what the rest of the world is thinking.
I think you should release the photo of osama bin laden body
No they should not release any photos, nor should they be saying that he was unarmed. There is a saying about rubbing salt into a wound and we don't need to build any more resentment and give these people justification to attack us. The people making these decisions did well but now appear to be bordering on stupid.
I am not sure, especially after the book burning pastor. And then again, there is donald trump who will be asking for the death certificate and all the conspiracy theorists out there.
Not if president Obama has his way. He doesn't need to beat his chest nor does he want to rile the sensibilities of moderate Muslims with "snuff" photos or tape. Either way, the newborn "Deather" movement won't believe we got bin Laden since a secret Muslim is weak on terror.
Jack:
I believe it would do a great deal of harm. Seeing beheadings of our soldiers certainly didn’t provide anything positive to the non-radical population.
Our children shouldn’t be exposed to such images and, if made public, the photos (already gruesomely described) will no doubt be shown constantly on the news channels. Along with other rational people around the world, I believe bin Laden is dead and I don’t care to see pictures.
Photos will just play into the radical element’s anti-American propaganda and won’t change the minds of the none-believers.
Terri
California
Why? those who don't believe hes dead still wont, those who think he's dead still will, it would just fuel conspiracy theories, remember a certain birth certificate???
They might as well; I personally think there will no doubt be a percentage of the population that won't be convinced that the body is Bin Laden's even if they do see the pictures-they'll have to release the tape of his wife confirming the body is his plus the DNA tests too and even that won't do it for some. If they are released, I hope it's done it in a way that is the most sensative as it can be. I choose not to look at stuff like this. Whatever the W>H> does, they will not be able to satisfy some of the public.
Hi im writting from Vallejo Ca.
And now to answer your question about them releasing photos of Osama bin ladens body i belive they should show all the photos that they have of him all the american people have the right to see. I belive that it could'ent be any worses then what we had to see on the day of 9/11. Well thats all i have to say thank you .
Yessiree Uncle Jack, they should. Could I please get mine framed so it can be hung over the fireplace, right next to Thomas Jefferson's portrait?
For the families of the 3000 plus 9/11 victims and the rest of the citizens of this country the government owes us a complete view of Osama Bin Laden body and the area where he met his maker. The extermination of Bin Laden was a long time coming and those of us that waited for this day do not want to be short changed. Shame they didn't behead him before they fed him to the fish.
Gerry
Ash Fork, Az.
If we can handle watching footage of thousands die from a terrorist attack on 9/11, I believe we can handle seeing a picture of the dead man who made it happen.
Yes. Prove that it happened to the world. Otherwise Trump will be wasting your news crews time trying to create more controversy. I saw reports that it might offend some muslims if the photo is realeased. Too bad, all Americans are offended by 9/11.
I don't need to see the body. I trust the people who were responsible for positively identifying him.
Dave
Seattle
It would be closure for many people, but there are those who will not believe he is dead no matter what they are presented with. These are the haters who will never give Obama credit for doing anything good for our country, no matter what evidence they are shown. They will credit it with a good Photoshop job. They are still doubting the validity of his birth cerificate–a birth certificate that looks exactly like mine. The conspiracy theories will swirl forever. People believe Kennedy is still alive, Elvis is still alive. If showing the photos will make things better, show it. I would not be worried about offending the Muslims. Do what is best for Americans for once.
Kathy
Honolulu, Hawaii
Yes, Jack. It will prevent the usual group of boobs, idiots, and conspiracy theorists from doubting that it was really done. And we have had enough of that lately.
Yes pictures should be shown! We would all like the proof! I don't personally care if it is against his religion or not due to all the people he tortured. He was pure evil.
On ONE condition: Show the dead bodies of the local officials in Pakistan; you know, those who were collecting money from the Taliban in return for harboring this thug? How much of our US tax dollars get inadvertantly spent on Osama's room and board, I wonder?
No. We don't need to convince anyone who will only claim that the photos are fake anyways. Don't be tricked into giving propaganda to the enemy for their recruiting efforts. He is dead. Enough said.
NO, releasing pictures of Osama bin Laden's body MAY appease Americans but most likely would only serve as a recruitment poster for more followers.
Instead, show the photos of bin Laden using a woman as a shield so the world what this COWARD was really made of.
Throw in a few pictures of his mansion and lavish lifestyle to highlight his hypocrisy of asking prospective recruits to sacrifice and die for "his" cause against Americans while he enjoyed the pampered western way of life.
And remember, nothing takes the wind out of a movement like finding out the leader was a fake.
There are people in America who refuse to believe what they don't WANT to believe. The earth is only six thousand years old. The president of the US was not born in the US. Global warming is a plot. America has tens of millions of people who are just this stupid. I'm sure that fundamentalist muslims, with their affection for a return to 7th century values, will be just as skeptical as our own homegrown morons. Put the pictures on the web, not on TV. Cy – Arlington, VA
I don't need to see them! But, for our FOX viewers. Who breathe through their mouths and can't think for themselves...then yes. They will need pictures! Because all of their books...have pictures in them!!
You have to show something that this terriost is dead because the conpiracy theories will go on forever if you dont. Remember we didnt go to the moon for some even with photos.
They released photos of the Hussein brothers after the firefight that led to their deaths, so what's the problem? UBL will end up a martyr in the radical muslim world regardless of whether the photos are released or not. AJ, Branson, Mo.
I would like to say no but this country is so conspiracy oriented it may become necessary to stop the naysayers and even then there will be those who will doubt the authencity of any photos that may be released. I am not sure release of the grisly photos of Saddam Hussein did anything but satisfy those who like to look at fatal car wrecks or events like that. I think we lose a lttile of our humanity when we need to see the corpse.-
No it should not be released. There is truly no need for it aside from blatant disrespect. I'm not saying that Osama deserves our respect, but I would like to think that America is above such actions. Osama is dead, everybody knows this. We don't need to see the gory details of how he was killed or the aftermath of the killing.
Osama bin Laden was a horrific human being, but was still a human being. I don't need to, nor do I want to, see any human being dead.
If they release the photo, everyone will see it. That's everyone including your children and grandchildren. Is that something we really want? It would be highly irresponsible for the White House to release the gory details of the death of another.
No need for that Jack. His Ideology, methods and disregard for human life were already D.O.A. Let's let him fade away.
What possible benefit would releasing photos bring ??
We're supposed to be a developed leader nation.
Let's act like one.
Forget the photos.
Yes, absolutely. If the photos aren't released many will doubt it, espeically his followers. It will also prove to Republicans it wasn't a stunt. Of course, I would expect Republican's to want and see Osama's brith certificate.
No ,we don't need to see a picture,after all the media has made sure over and over for the last 48 hours that he is dead,enough already.Their is other things goingon,let this bin Laden thing die.
Should the White House release a photo of Osama bin Laden's body?
For who? The same people that demanded our president prove that he was born in the US?
I don't need to see it. I believe what has been reported.
To look at his picture would only serve to glorify him and that is the LAST that any sane person would want to do.
THANK YOU PRESIDENT OBAMA, OUR INTEL COMMUNITY AND BRAVE US TROOPS FOR KILLING OSAMA BIN LADEN
Jenna
Roseville CA
Jack,
If the White House doesn't, they'll be dealing with another Birther situation. The doubting Donald will probably want to stick his fingers in the DNA. Oh, wait a moment; he doesn't even shake hands with people.
Yes, with dignity.
Remenber the grusome images the world endured on 9/11 of people jumping to their deaths from the Twin Towers? Those were some of the 1st images of 9/11 that started it all. Go ahead and show his dead body to close the 9/11 chapter.
Preston from Seattle
the pictures should not be made public unless bin la den's says he is alive. then proof would be need to prove to the world that he is died.
If they don't release the photos, soon we'll be talking about the "deather" movement. Let's stop the madness before it starts and show every photo, video and scientific evidence that proves Osama is dead.
I think you are a sick man. Why do you want to see such graphic images?
Yes the White House must release the photos of OBL (no matter how they look) to make a final confirmation. President's words are not enough.
If they show the pictures, it will preempt a leak that will probably happen. As a matter of proving that he is dead, the pictures will not serve. It will be like the birther problem, those who do not want to believe it will not.
Why not. there are those out there that believe its all a lie, of course. Show them his bloody face. But then again they will probably say it is photoshopped.
Some people weren't happy until Pres. Obama released his long form birth certificate, even now some still believe it's a forgery. Releasing photos of Osama won't do a thing to mollify the tin foil hat crowd.
He is dead, be thankful that he no longer menaces humanity.
Jack
I paid a trillion dollars to have bin laden killed. To have the will of the American people overriden by the whims of Radical Muslims would be a disgrace. Osama deserves less than nothing. Publish the photos as a testament to the will of the American people. We all saw the disgraceful images of 2900 who died on 911 as Arabs cheered
Absolutely Jack! The Bodies of Saddam Hussein were graphically shown for all to see and we watched in horror, the execution of Saddam Hussein himself. These photographs left no doubt in anyone's mind that these horrific people were in fact no longer with us. Osama bin Laden is no less a monster. I still have the images in my mind of those poor innocent souls jumping from the twin towers. If Americans had to witness such horror of other Americans, we certainly can bear to see the body of the man that caused that horror . The doubt about his death should be put to rest along with his body by showing graphic photo's of his demise.
Jack i think it would be a mistake to release photos of Bin Laden's dead body. Americans do not need a trophy to look at. The man is dead. We need to have some class and not try and stir up a hornets nest by bragging about what was done. You know be honorable and decent instead of acting like the barbarians that committed those acts. Rise above the affray for once.
Will that be a certification of death photo, or a certificate of death photo?
I'd hate to see Mr Trump chasing his tail for the next few months.
Jack,
It makes no difference at all.
The lie tellers and believers will. continue. Reality is not part of their experience or concern. They just want attention like spoiled little kids.
The pictures can not hurt, but, the media's constant 24/7 replaying and reporting the non-believers will. Tell a lie often enough and people will come to believe it.
Yes. Those who won't believe won't believe it anyways but this way I don't have to listen to idiots scream all day about Obama having something hide by not releasing it like his birth certificate. Just do it now so we can talk about things that matter instead of letting Right Wingers who've seen a few too many episodes of the X Files dominate the debate.
SHEESE! Jack? Duznt everyone already know the pics were out days ago? And? It wasn the white house that released any one of them. SHEESE!!!
Definately YES. Most people in the US want proof that Bin Laden is dead. They want to see the bullet holes in his head and chest because they are still angry over 9/11. Seeing what looks like a body covered by a white sheet being droped in the ocean will not prove anything. Show his face. There have all ready been several reports that were not true (Bin Ladens wife being killedt, Bin Laden being armed, etc). Be totally honest with the America people and do not try to hide anything. Honesty is your best weapon.
Keith
Columbus OH
I see no benefit in doing so. There will be those that refuse to accept it and a photo won't change that. He got better than he deserved but that just shows we are better than them.
Absolutely. Bin Laden made his face the symbol of fear and anxiety for millions of people worldwide. They deserve closure that can only come from viewing the monster brought to his knees and slain. It's also the only way to silence conspiracy theorists. Those who don't wish to see his remains are not being forced to look.
The likely result of releasing pictures of Bin Laden's dead body would be to inflame his followers and cause violence. It would be an act on a par with that of the brainless Koran-burner, Terry Jones.
First they want the birth certificate, now they want the body...sheesh!
The release of a photo would be a farse. Another media distraction, and likely a photoshop job. The Whitehouse should show some class and keep their snuff pictures to themselves.
I think they should but they should take time before releasing anything. We are dealing with the world where our troops are there and most people are ignorant. Osama’s supporter’s emotion is running high now, what is the point of fueling it and put our troops in danger? We wanted Bin Laden dead and he is dead. Mission accomplished
Actually it will make very little difference whether they do or don't release Bin Ladin's picture. If they do release it, those who want to believe that he isn't dead will say "It's a photoshop job", and if they don't release it, those who want to believe that he isn't dead will say "That's proof it wasn't him otherwise they would have shown us the picture." A no win situation.
Jack – The White House probably should not release the death photos unless needed. Nobody from Al Queada is denying that he's dead. The Pakistani government (who now has physical possession of the compound and its occupants) is actually complaining that he was killed without the US asking them first. Sounds like a third-party confirmation to me. Most of the governments and people in the middle east seem to be glad that he's dead. No need to give some jihadie guy an excuse. Let's just keep going and get the next one.
I'll take their word for it that he's dead. That's good enough for me.
Hi Jack,
I'd like to suggest a compromise. They should show the photos and videos to senate and congressional leaders, especially to the Republican/Tea Party representatives. They can then report back to their constituents on their authenticity and hopefully squash any conspiracy theories.
No it is gouhlish. There is no point to releasing them. The conspiracary theories are already afoot and pictures would only for another source for the speculators.
No, Jack, it shouldn't. Why give some group of terrorists out there something to hang on their wall for motivation?
I don't know what purpose it will serve except to maybe shut the pie holes of some conspiracy types. But frankly, you could deliver his body to door step to most of these "haters"and they would continue to try and minimize this administration successes. More importantly though Jack it's just flat out bad taste
Yes, release them....let the rest of his minions see what their ultimate fate should be when justice comes calling...what goes around comes around.
What's the point? Skeptics will only say the pictures have been doctored up or altered and that it is not bin Laden.
I think they should release a photo of bin Laden's body. There are too many Americans saying "it's a conspiracy" "it's fake" "it's a publicity stunt""President Obama wants votes." While I like to believe that it's real, and for the most part I do, seeing a picture would help make me 100% positive. that he's really dead. I also don't think the fact that it might be a bit gory makes a difference. If it's not something you want to see don't look, but everyone else deserves that reassurance.
No they shouldn't release photo's of this animal! It's almost to the point his death is glorified now. There was enough people in the White House with the President to be witness to his death that it needs to be left alone and let him rot at the bottom of the sea! Be done with it and get on to the next one!
I believe we should see the pictures. When President Kennedy was shot in the head, we watched that over and over. Osama Bin Laden was a monster, so i want to know that he is really dead.
He recieved a more than decent burial, a better one than he gave 9/11 victims, so the powers that be should be able to release anything they want, even if it offends Muslims. The public paid the price for his crime, and in many ways we still are, so give us some satisfaction so we can be sure he is dead.
I do not think the White House should release the photo or photos of OBL Body. What would it really prove or solve now? People know that pictures can be photoshopped now so the people who believe that he is really dead already believe it and the people who do not never will.
Please, do not release the photos of Bin Laden!! His identity has confirmed sufficiently for me. I absolutely do not want to see these gory photos.
I hope the White House wont gave us much trouble over releasing the photo of his dead body as they gave us with Obama's birth certificate. Where is Donald Trump when you need him.
Yes show the pictures for all the families who lost loved one on 9/11 and in the two wars that followed. It may cause issues around the world but if it 's OK to show pictures of American's being beheaded or dragged through the streets of Iraq by Arab TV then it seems right to me to show Osama blown away face.
It's a little hard for us to release the photo of Osama when we are so often outraged by Arab television releasing photos of dead Americans. That being said, I'd like to be able to see the photo, but I'm not sure it is in the best interest of the US to do so.
The WH should absolutely release photos and footage of Bin Laden's anticipated death. Our own government's reluctant disposition towards the release of these photos in fear of initiating an "inflammatory" response is preposterous. Who's the super power here? The Obama administration should realize that inflammation can also be systemic...
No Jack. I have seen our service men dragged through the streets and the anger generated is longstanding. I can't imagine how their families felt. We should not enrage nor give rise to the next generation of terrorists. As my grandfather said, "let sleeping dogs lay." He, OBL, has a family too and we should respect those who did not agree with his actions and not provoke those that did.
Many people are strange and want to see gory details; many will be offended or repulsed by the image; many may remain unconvinced the photo is undoctored – – released or not controversy will continue.
It certainly would add credibility to his death since there are so many doubting thomas types out there. Did you hear that Donald Trump and tea party members?
Jack: Only if the middle east media questions whether Bin Laden is dead or not. There are some who will never believe Osama bin Laden was killed by a Seal Team. A picture is worth a thousabd words. If the media in Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Saudia Arabia call us liars then we show them the pictures.
Yes, they should release it but pixel out or cover the bloody parts as to not gross out those with weak stomachs.
Why release them? To satisfy the kooks who didn't believe that Obama was actually born in Hawaii (and still won't even after the release of his long form certificate of live birth)? They won't believe any photos anyway. I believe Obama and am satisfied that bin Laden is dead and is now fish food so I don't need to see any gruesome pictures.
Of course we need to release the picture. Do yo think they will more or less fanatic no matter what is done? Let all the terrorists see that they too can have the same fate, shot in the head dumped at sea.
Let them renew anger, its been that way for decades. No holding back now- its war!
It doesn't matter. The people who believe it now will believe the photos and the others will see conspiracy. Saddam Hussein – Check! Osama bin Laden – Check! Waldo – you're next!
From what I've heard the photos could be too graphic for some. Yet with both the Al Qaeda supporters and our rabid right GOP screaming "no proof" and "conspiracy", I am afraid we have little choice but to release the photos. Even that may not be enough for the Rabid Right though–they probably want the video too.
In a word: Yes! We, The American People have earned the right to physically see the end of our attacker! We, The American People have paid with our blood, our sons, daughters, fathers and mothers lives, our freedom to live in a non-invasive environment and lastly with debt, both personal and national, financing the right to see this bloody end to a terrorist who started it all.
I believe he’s dead without a picture, but we have already heard rumblings from the birther mentality that they have to see a picture, so show it to them. I’m sure they’re no worse than the made-up corpse’s Ducky autopsies on NCIS and the media can decide when and if to show it to their audiences. They will be on the tabloid covers at the super market if nothing else. Do you think they will also demand a death certificate? Who would issue it? Who would sign it? Would a certified copy suffice? Film at 11.
Yes! I think it will help people who don't believe that he is really dead, believe it. I personally do not wish to see his corpse abut there are people who need to see it. What harm is there in that?
Yes, a picture. All the Pictures. And the (original) death certificate. And please, a limited edition paper meche dead Bin Laden pinata with a stick with a shoe, for garden parties.
I'm more interested in seeing and knowing the Navy Seals who took care of business in 40 minutes and are all still alive and well.
Yes They Should Release The Photos Just To Clear The Minds Of The People That Really Don't Believe For Some Reason That He's Dead But They Should Only Release The Photos On The Internet For A Over 18 Yr Old Site I Don't Honestly Think They Should Just Post These Gruesome Photos All Over Television Cuz I Seen A Picture On The Internet And It Looks Really Gruesome But If They Release Them Do It Online!!!!
Scott Stodden (Freeport,Illinois)
From what I've heard the photos could be too graphic for some. Yet with both the Al Qaeda supporters and our rabid right GOP screaming "no proof" and "conspiracy", I am afraid we have little choice but to release the photos. Even that may not be enough for the Rabid Right though–they probably want the video too.
I can tell you one thing–these GOP Rabid Right characters wouldn't be standing next to a Navy SEAL and calliing him a liar.
The mission in Afghanastan has been a relationship building one,with soldiers mingling with locals, trying to gain their trust. I would suspect releasing a gory photo of Bin Laden may be cause for concern for them. Wait till those kids are out of there.
yes Jack, I think they should. After all they showed us bloody dead corpses of people in a morgue in Libya, bloody bodies laying in the streets of Syria and they were rebels and freedom fighters. Bin Laden is person responsible for nearly 3000 deaths of innocent people on 9/11. If showing the pictures brings some sort of relief or closure to the family members and the rest of us, show the damn pictures and LET FREEDOM RING !!!!!!!!
Releasing those pictures is the same as giving him a matry's burial.The pictures will make him a matyr forever in the eyes of his followers.(Remember the picture of THE LADY Of GUADALUPE has been hanging for over 400 years).Again,we have to remeber there are American citizens living outside the US and their safety is of utmost importance.Those who choose not to believe OBL is dead are actually disrespecting the bravery and intelligence of our Navy S.E.A.L.S.These same set of people will believe the picture was photoshopped.It is time this Administration stops swaying to petty sentiments.
No. When weighing the pros and cons, I feel the cons overwhelm the pros. All it would do is reassure people as to the truth of it – people who won't believe it anyway – and it will put many others at risk. Let dead dogs lie.
No Jack, the pictures should not be released. The people who don't believe he is really dead won't believe it even if the pictures are shown because they will think they are fake. I believe he is dead and releasing those pictures will only inflame the Muslim extremists. Our president, and those involved in did a great job. It's over, he's dead, now lets move on and not belabor this point any further.
Jack, I think the photos online only. They're probably too graphic for TV.
Most intelligent people don't have to see the bloody picture of Osama bin Laden to believe that he was killed. Of course, how can you convince the fringe who still don't believe President Obama was born in Hawaii even after seeing both the long and short form birth certificates.
How about terrorist base ball cards? Alive on one side dead on the other , What team did he kill for ? Number of people killed , Did he make the top ten most wanted ect ?
Yes the White House should release all photo, and video proof. I believe it happened, and Osama is dead, but I still would like to see all proof. Just to be informed. Plus I think it will shut up any doubters not just here, but around the world..
Yes, of course. I don't believe everything I read, or hear. The White House couldn't find Osama Bin Laden for 10 years now, and then suddenly we find him in Pakistan? The mission for 10 years now was suppose to be capturing Bin Laden, and now we find him in Pakistan? What's the war in Afghanistan for, as we thought he was hiding there.
I won't believe it, unless I see it with my own eyes.
As a combat Marine in Vietnam there become a reverence of death, even the death of an enemy held that reverence.
There is no need to further degrade this individual in death, if those who may believe or propagandize that bin Laden is not dead then let them give the proof that he is still alive.
No, the pleasure of seeing someone dead is a terrorists pleasure. Lets hope America has not fallen that far. We have lost much of our honor and dignity already lets not put our selves into the same box
as Osama Ben laden.
Why not? They did for Sadaam's sons...No difference
We probably should release the photos now, they will leak out at some point anyway...
No; what good will showing a gruesome picture of a dead Osama do? The people who believe (or, should I say, know) he's dead won't want to look at it, and the conspiracy theorists will just claim it's photoshopped. It will do absolutely no good, other than making Al-Qaeda even more mad at us than they already are.
Yes, absolutely we should get to see a photo of OBL! I am waiting for that to happen!
The pictures are coming soon, the US art department isn't done photoshopping the images yet...give them some time folks!
Jack, they released graphic pictures of Dead bodies of Saddam, Uday and Qusay so why not Bin Laden's?
Jack,
I couldn't think of a more appropriate situation in which the term "a picture is worth a thousand words" applies.
If they can show 9/11 and our towers falling on the television, then they should be able to show Osama Bin Ladens Body on the television.
The photo of Osama bin Laden's body should not be released from the White House. We know he is dead. He was shot in eye and chest. Why do we need to see it. Seems completely distasteful if any journalists run the picture.
Absolutely, to erase all doubt. Otherwise, we just have to take our government's word for it, and lately, that is not good enough!
I just checked the internet and found post mortem photos of Bin Laden - so anyone who wants to see them already can. And you're right, Jack, they're pretty gruesome.
YES! the usa did not hesitate to release photographs of Saddam. I and 56% of america believes that we deserve to see the photos of him! SHOW US!
Absolutely not – we should not show this picture. Our service members have fought and sacrificed with honor and this is not an honorable display of victory whatsoever!
It would only honor UBL further among his supporters.
They should publish all the pictures. I understand it will further anger the al queda but Osama is dead. The people have to come first.
The White House, CIA, and all of those national security people know a lot more about the possible repercussions of these photos than we do. If they decide not to release it, it's for a good reason and we shouldn't complain...
Yes, release the photos.
It's a sick curiosity that drives people to see pictures of any dead person. Let's respect Muslim tradition and request that the photo remain out of the public eye.
Presbyterian minister
It doesn't really matter if they do or don't. If we release the pictures, we'll have the same bout of rebuttals saying it's photoshopped. The burden of proof can always be ignored or rebutted if you're truly ignorant enough.
I believe the White House, and I have no need to see a gruesome photo to convince me that they are telling the truth.
Those who do NOT believe the White House won't change their minds whether they see a photo or not - just look at the reaction of the birthers and other crazies to the Obama birth certificate: the more you show them, the more they scream that the evidence is all faked.
So, no, Jack, I don't think the photos should be released...what would be the point?
Yes, we (Americans, especially New Yorkers) deserve to see the dead body of this evil devil who caused so much grief for so many people.
Many other images have been shown throughout the years. They should be released. However, alert the public when that happens and let the public make the decision whether to watch the pictures in print or on TV or other media.
Still a Democracy. We the People are in charge and We the People want to see the photos. President is President, not King... We get to see Our photos that We the People paid for with Our taxes...
Yes they should release the photo's, it's for each of us to decide if we want to look at them or not.
Yes! If we were able to see the horrible events of 9/11 on live TV then I think we can handle a few pictures of Osama Bin Laden's corpse.
Not only should we release a picture of bin Laden’s body but we should make it a National postage stamp.
The answer is simple, Jack: YES. It's called "full disclosure," also known as "transparency."
Of course the picture(s) should be released. That's the only way to try to shut up the "deathers" who are and will be saying that he isn't dead.
we saw what he did to us it is only fair we see what we did to him. might be gory but how gory is the pics from 9/11 there was no blood but it was gory in it's own right. and I don't care if it upsets his followers. they need to see what will happen to them if they try to hurt us again.
the picture of bin laden shot in the face, the describes as gruesome, is already on the web.
I realize our government lies about a lot of things, but I am willing to take their word on this one. I don't think it is necessary to show a dead body and it is disrespectful also. It's just too shitty for us to do.
Yeah Jack they should. And say to all the Al Queda followers "This could be you".
No. We don't need to terrorize children further with the sight of a murdered terrorist.
Yes, we should display the body. If you dont like looking at those images,dont. I am sure if an American soldier is killed in Saudia Arabia on the terrorist side they are going to show it on Aljazzera tv.
War isnt fun its hell but Bin Laden brought it on.
Of course they should be released. Ever since JFK there is no blind faith in our government and that is a good thing.
YES! What makes him any better then Uday and Qusay Hussein?
Yes, Yes, Yes. Release the photo. We handled the twin tower pictures. TRUST ME, we can handle the picture of a dead OBL.
YES... Can it really be more graphic & bloody then the C.S.I. TV shows?
Show the pictures. We need conclusive evidence that he is dead. No picture can ever be more disturbing than what we witnessed on 9/11.
No. There is no value in releasing photos of the dead. It's not as if if is a prized hunt that could be mounted on the wall. Now way!
That's a very good question Jack because the release of these graphic images could trigger a deadly response. I know the public wants proof but we might want to think about the outcome of such a decision first. You know just as well as I do that once any image is released there is no turning back. With the speed of social media and the internet that photo or those photo(s) would be posted everywhere instantly with absolutely no way of resetting the clock. I also don't think any parents would want a picture of a corpse on the front their morning paper while their kids are at the breakfast table. Lastly the humiliating factor is something to think about. The guy was a devil without a doubt and should rot in hell for eternity but does that justify us demeaning the character of our country by humiliating a dead man. I wouldn't scrutinize our government if they did and I doubt any of our citizens would but I bet a few foriegn relations would.
Yes I think the video should be released. People are having doubts that he is dead. The picture will be enough proof to suggest otherwise.
No. Pictures of Bin Ladens body should not be released to the public. HOWEVER, surviving victims of the 9/11 attacks (ie. immediate family of those who lost their lives) should be given access to them if they so request.
i think we have the right to see his dead body
No. Like you said, the man's dead. I'm pretty sure we can take the word of the President. Let it go.
The government should only let the families of the victims of 9/11, etc. See the photos only if those families choose to see them. It should be treated like a state execution....only victims families are allowed to view.
I think the pictures should be seen mainly because I trust our SEALS but not our government.
Hell Yeah they should show his picture since he's the mastermind of 9/11 and his Al-Queda network!
I certainly do not want to see the pic of Osama, dead. Why would anyone want to see it? I believe we killed him and that he is dead; that is all I need.
Oh my YES! Show those photos. OBL was the DEVIL incarnate and we all saw LIVE what he was capable of on 9-11...couldn't be as gruesome as innocent people jumping out of those towers...HE DESERVED what he got...SHOW THOSE PICS PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes! But only hang them on the prison walls at Gitmo!
Yes I think you should show the photo, if the people want to see it so bad then Yes show it...we all know that every American wants to see it but most are afraid to say yes cuz of what other people might think about them, but we all want to see it, I know I do
i have an 11 year old daughter. i wouldnt want her to see the gruesome pictures. i however do want to see them. given this dilemna, i will always choose my daughters welfare over my own therefore i am against publication of the gruesome photograph in question.
robert c.
san antonio, texas
Jack: I say It should be shown. I don't want to see It, but I don't think the majority of Americans believe the sky Is blue (sometimes) let alone UBL being dead.
This is the way I see it, all these "stories" that keep on changing every day! some people believe in there's many in the world that are pushing to release the pictures and show the public! very simple people these days don't believe it unless there are proven facts!
Jack- of course they should release the photos. Not just to prove the job was done right but don't you think we deserve it? It was our money they used to get him, it was our blood spilled in NYC, DC and PA. The administration has no right to decide if we should see the photos–they're ours! This is just another manifestation of the democrats mantra–they want our money and they know whats best for us-I'm disgusted.
Roger Warwick, NY
Yes, release the picture to send a strong message to terrorists everywhere.
No. The government should allow the photo to be viewed by a representative sample of U.S. government officials (R/D/I), international government officials, and media (left/right/center). These entities could then report on what they've seen.
Well, it's a problem. One that could have been entirely avoided by arresting an unarmed Bin Laden instead of proving to the world that the US is not a nation of rule by law.
Of course, the trial would have been far too embarrassing for those in Washington and in big oil who have serious business connections to the bin Laden family.
If they had offered the Seals a bonus for capturing that jerk alive, you can bet they would have done just that in a heartbeat.
No. Justice prevailed. It is sufficient.
I say no because we'll have to look at these pictures for the rest of our lives. Why does the media have to constantly give these monsters the attention they seek???
Personally YES alot of ppl would like to see the body. Only because we have visions in our head of ppl jumping to their death from towers... A differant way to remember would help with AMERICANS COPE!
Definitely not. I trust our government's discretion as to the wisdom of that move. He's DEAD! To wallow in his death doesn't do us or the world any benefit. Move on in the war on terrorism!
It would be a mistake display pictures of him deceased to the general public worldwide. The photos sohould be shown only to members of Congress who would be able to vouch for the validity of them to their constituents. It would be potentially inflamatory to other nations and perhaps place our citizens abroad and our military personal in jeopardy to display them publicly.
Of course it should be released! There are several conspiracy theorists out there waiting for pictures including myself. If these photographs aren't released that means Osama is alive.
Yes Jack,
Every American has the right to see Bin Laden's photo after the pain he inflicted on 9/11. Show the world that he got as good as he gave. Al Queda is going to come after us regardless of what we do.
The pictures should definitely be released. The gruesomeness of the photos is not unlike anything we see in video games, horror movies, bad dreams, etc. I don't think an image of a dead Bin Laden should be on the front page, but the images should at least be made available to the public via a government website.
I think it should be released! I already have it. (file attached) Let us put the conspiracy theory to rest. Let us show the world what happens to those who attack us.
Mark G.
Corona , Ca
Jack, Osama bin Laden has been on America's list for over 10 yrs and when the government goes in and takes the number one off the list without the knowledge of the American population, it leaves questions about where he is and if the mission really was successful. Osama's body should have been paraded through the streets like Mussolini's body was after WW2. There needs to be defentive proof to finally put this to rest.
Who cares whether Al Khaida gets steamed over Ben Ladin's photos being shown. We want them steamed. It's about time this country got some guts and called these low life bast....ds out. Let's get it on. Quit being a bunch of wimps and get the job done.
Absolutely! I want to see them as well as with the rest of America. Let's don't undermine the great work of our Armed Forces! If they are afraid to release them because it may upset his followers... then DO IT! They need to see what happened to their leader and I want to see what angle the bullet hit his head. Thanks!
I don't think the White House should release the photo just because you want to see it, Jack. Use your imagination. He's was shot in the face.
As long as there's no photos of a body, none of the burial at sea, then it pretty much doesn't exist. We saw the Saddam photos and lynching video, and no one questioned it as a conspiracy theory after that valuable piece of footage. It's not like we have a honest government anyway, but at least some proof of Osama's death would be enough to save face from further being labeled as underhanded.
Woodstock N.B
I believe his body should be shown to the people. I do believe he is dead but he hasd killed a lot of people and Americans,Canadian and the world deserve to see his bloody face!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely! America and the world wants visual proof. Al-Jazeera and other networks did'nt have a problem showing photo's of a U.S. Soldiers body being dragged down the streets of Somalia. You owe the American public!
Michael J. Bailey, USN (Ret) DoD (Ret)
I do not think the public should see this photo. it serves no purpose but to satisfy the prurient interests of some people. The consequences are not worth the view.
If people are in doubt, it should be shown to a group of bipartisan Senators and they can report that they affirm his death.
Yes, I would rather see OBL dead than all of the pictures CNN keeps showing of him alive.
No why this is utter stupid why would you want to see this, it will make more anger around the world and it could harm our troops. Why such a obession with something this is nasty. Lets move on already enough with Bin Laden
Yes, we should have the right to see the proof. I for one want to know for sure that he is dead. Many of our men and women gave their lives fighting this war and we deserve to see the truth. No matter how bad it looks. I also want to know if he wasn't armed why was he killed let alone shot in the head. Terrorist or not, this is not right. Or is this a ploy from our president to try and get him re-elected. It won't work.
YES, Al Qaeda is already steamed about the death of their leader so how much madder can they get i think it is appropriate but if they release it they should release it after 10:00 at night i think that is appropriate Christopher
Cambridge Ontario
I think that it is wrong to officially release death photos of Bin Laden. It extends the personality cult image that he's had, and puts our government in the same status as the terrorists who televised beheadings on al Jazeera.
Yes they should!! I want to put to rest any idea that they DIDN'T get him.
We need proof!!
yes,the video/pictures should absolutely be released to American people.this man is the devil himself and we shouldnt worry about what terrorist would feel,we deserve the right to see him dead..we really do
Yes. They need to release the pictures. Quite frankly, I don't trust anything the Federal Government says these days. I need proof.
Yes they should release his pictures..its the only to prove to the united states that he's really dead..the nation deserves to see the final photograph of bin ladden to ease the peole of this nation with proof of his death.
yes maybe people will stop the nonsense of him, if he is dead, good , time to move on but if not then we need answers, and we need answers fron pakistan on why? they have taken so much money in aid from us and the aid was non military, ,they need to answer this question,and the aid for them needs to be stopped
No. I, as a U.S. citizen, have no need nor over-powering interest in seeing Bin Laden's dead body, and especially his bloody face. I'm very grateful to President Obama and our armed forces that he has been killed. And that is enough. We, as a nation, need to maintain a higher standard in everything, including journalism.
Of course!
We got the photos of Hussein, and his sons, so why not him? It's like ending a movie before the thriller ending....
Osama commited the WORST act against the United States. Its our right to see how his acts of villainy worked for him in the end.
It pays to be America's friend. Just as being its villain pays a far different way in the end.
Although releasing the picture will not silence skeptics. It seems justified to reveal the photo to the world. After all, Bin Laden didn't mind the images of dead Americans on 9/11 revealed to the world. In his own words. Eye for an Eye.
Yes, the White House should release the pictures of Osama's body. Releasing them does not make him any more dead, so it isn't as if his followers could get much angrier about the incident. Plus, it would put the inevitable conspiracy theories to rest.
Its already up on the net, just google Bin Laden dead and click on images.
We need to help the US government by accepting the pics already on the web, why do we need the US governments pics when there already out there? The government is not out to get us like everybody thinks. Im for our country and president not against.
No. It has been supported by several different reports that bin Laden is dead. A photo will only inflame more people. Let it rest.
NO – DOUBLE NO – AND AGAIN I SAY NO
What would be the true purpose? There will always be people who don't believe it was really him, but let them doubt. Why subject the American people to more of this. I teach 6th grade, and I don't want to have to answer my students' questions about these pictures, and trust me they would see them.
I think a photo of bin Laden's dead body should be released. But whether it is or not, Donald Trump would still insist that bin Ladens "long form" death certificate be released along with it. Just sayin'
Heidi Murrell
La Plata, Missouri
Why can't they originally set these photos up on a website where the general public would have to register to see them? Make it an opt-in to see the photos. The website can be set up so the picture cannot be copied/downloaded and this would make it a true scenario where people who WANT to see them, can. Conversely, those who are not interested will not be subjected to them all over the internet in the future.
Jack – I think we see "gruesome" and highly graphic visuals from wars past and present - cannot be more graphic than "Saving Private Ryan" or "Band of Brothers". It is the unfortunate reality of our times and reflects the violence that global society steeps in every day.. very sad for the human race as it speaks to what we are. Sure, release the photos - I am sure they will be incorporated into an XBOX game next year.
Dan Bednarik, PhD
Highland, MD
Absolutely not. I would have preferred seeing Laden's head on a stick, mounted on the front bumper of a Hum V and toured through the entire middle east as proof of death.... I will settle for the photos however.
Although the majority of people polled say they want to see a picture, they may regret it once they do. It will be extremely graphic and violent, very real, and you can't get something like that out of your mind once you've seen it. I once made the mistake of opening a tabloid that published shots of Nicole Brown Simpson after she had been killed; I wished I hadn't. I believe the man is dead, I don't need to see a picture to get any kind of satisfaction on the matter.
No. Either you believe he is dead or not and just like the birth certificate issue, those who don't will start the "Its a fake rumor mill.
What earthly purpose does release of a picture serve? If people need proof that he's dead, release the results of the DNA test. I have no need, or desire, to see a head shot of a head shot – and neither does anyone else.
For what! I completely trust my President and the word of our military staff (Navy Seals), that this evil man has been erased. What purpose will it serve, other than to be nosy, do the world needs to see this mans body. Who will benefit from it. I pray to God that we do not get joy out of killing anyone to the point that we put their dead body on display. Remember curiousity killed the cat, don't let it kill us.
Hell yes the administration owes it to the public we have all suffered emotionally and monetarily regarding this criminal. We need to show the world we wont stand down ever. Show the photo it is up to the public weather or not they want to veiw it. Former Marine
No. We should ask ourselves what purpose will it serve? When you consider the classic m.o. of releasing videos or communiques from OBL, why should anybody give one more opportunity to signal OBL's minions to act violently?
Yes we should release the video. If we do not, there will be all kinds of conspiracy theorists saying that it was a hoax. It's not like you can make the people that hate us and want to destroy us, any more upset than they already are. Show his followers that we will destroy anyone that attacks our freedom!
I believe that the photos ought to be released so that the world may put this issue to rest. My understanding is that the administration decided against bombing the compound for the very reason that it would not have produced a body; now that they have proof of a body, it makes sense to follow through and show it. I suppose, however, that they could request that the media not display it on television and have it posted on The White House's website instead. It'd be slightly less inflammatory this way.
No, It would be disrespectful to millions of peace loving Muslims, not to mention civilized people of all beliefs! When does CNN or any news media show graphic pictures of dead bodies.
Why don't you get pics of JFK after his death, or Martin Luther King?
I don't see any need to release gory photos. All that will accomplish is get more people killed by further enraging his supporters. Releasing some carefully selected photos – especially if there are some of a respectful burial at sea – would be fine. bin Laden did not deserve a respectful burial in the slightest – but we are above that and did the right thing.
Much respect and thanks to the Navy Seals!
North Pole, Alaska
Releasing the photos of Osama is a decision that is in our governments hands. I thought that we elected official to do the nations business. If it is their decision that releasing these photos would in some way harm US troops, American citizens or US interests, why would anyone want that to happen?
Absolutely NOT! Why would we want to add fuel to the fire of radical terrorists and further endanger the lives of Americans? This is not a horror movie for gruesome entertainment! Real people and real lives could be at stake!
It's absurd that the gov't does not want to release pictures of OBL due to the graphic nature. They can't be half as bad as the pictures displayed from 9/11.
We had to watch Americans jump to their death on live tv, was that not graphic? I think we can handle seeing Bin Laden's corpse to know its done. I also do not think the Arab world will just take our word for it without seeing it.
The US Goverment should show the Pictures of Osama so the World will really know that he is really dead because the Goverment could be just making it up because they are trying to hide something so they should Show it because the world would like to know the Truth not the Lies of the Goverment!!
I am a Catholic Christian woman 70 years old. Please do not release the photos of the death of Bin Laden. Have some respect, he was a human being.
No, it is the media that wants the photos! Media needs to back off and let it go; but they won't because showing gruesome death images of a hated man will get them ratings. U.S. media is becoming a bit Donald-Trumpish, way too self-important!
This military operation is already a three-ring media circus Jack, and releasing ANY pictures will effectively pour gasoline ona situation that will further infuriate a billion Muslims. Pictures will become the stimulous for rioting, killing, and anti-USA protests. Just let it go!
No. We should just forget about him. No trials, no pictures, and no room and board for years to come. Thank you Mr. President!
We do not need to see pictures of Osama bin Laden after his death. It can only serve to inflame his followers more. It won't do us any good to see them.
I do not want the photos of Bin Laden shown on TV.
I think people who want to look at dead bodies are weird and what positive good could possibly come from that for all the people in our world. Just let it go. Sincerely, N.S. in Oklahoma
I don't know. I mean I've seen a "picture" that was Osama but I don't if it was real. I think if we release it then we run the risk of having the terrorist become even more angry at us and attack us yet again. Of course if we don't then people may question if Osama is actually dead. I guess we will always have skeptics and I suppose the only way to shut them up is to show the picture. It's a delicate situation and I can see both sides.
Yes. I do believe the picture of the body should be shown. The US government has been at the middle of many scandals, cover-ups and misrepresentations over the years and they all seem to be in the favor of what they want the public to know or not. This is not Roswell, N.M. nor is this the photo of an alien autoposy. And, as for the inevitable retaliation....what is going to happen is going to happen.
What good would it do, Jack? The conspiracy theorists will think it's photoshopped anyway. For the first time in quite a while, I believe what I hear on the news with regards to this and am admittedly a little fearful of retaliation, with or without proof I don't personally need. What I want to see is what Secretary Clinton was looking at when she had her hand over her mouth.
Posting a picture would be as if we are showing a prized hunted animal. Next, some will want his head mounted and hung in a museum. No!
No way should any pictures, video or audio from the assalt be provided. All that does is stir up the press and al queda. These should never be released also due to national security as well as the protection of the navy seals involved. Why would anyone want to see a body with the head half gone. The press editors should never ever have a say as to putting them out to the public.
100% yes. The comment that was just made about it not being something on the front page paper of the press, what about the photos of 9/11? Those were not "family friendly photos" I was just 13 when the towers were struck and those images are embedded in my memory for ever. I think there is a minimal risk if any.
What purpose will it serve showing pictures of bin laden with a hole in his face. Who needs to see a bloody gory picture other than those that feed on such things. He was identified, shot, killed, buried at sea. Now its time to move on to the next link in the chain.
Releasing the pictures will solve nothing. There are still questions to this day.... "Did we land on the moon?" And for those who we may offend by releasing the pictures.... All i have to say is he brought it on himself.
Jack, the US should release the photos to dispell any conspiracy theories, and show the world that we will pursue our enemies. They released the pictures of The Hussein brothers, why not Bin Laden, he is the most notorious terrorist.
Unfortunately we're living in a time where the President of the US had to show his birth certificate to PROVE he was American. It stands to reason that these same individuals who didn't believe his nationality will not believe that his leadership is enough PROOF. So yes, a picture with osama's head rittled with bullets should be shown. Unfortunately, when it is shown the President will be criticized for releasing it to the media.
Yes Jack it should. The whole world should see what the ramifications are for killing innocent Americans in a terrorist attack. As Jon Stewart so eloquently said last night on his Daily show:
"The face of the Arab world in America's eyes for too long has been bin Laden, and now it is not. Now, the face is only the young people in Egypt, and Tunisia, and all the Middle Eastern countries around the world where freedom rises up."
This is the new face of Islam, and Bin Laden is now just a memory. This should be a message to all Radical Islamists in the world that their way is no longer the mainstream. look to Eqypt, Tunisia, and Lybia for the real and honest face of Islam for the future.
Mr. Cafferty, I just heard you ask on the air "how could showing the pictures make Bin Laden supporters more angry...he's dead..." Imagine if some one published pictures of the mangled body of one of your family members...are you saying that this would not upset you even more even though dead? The U.S. needs to be very smart about the way that they handle this. When will we learn that Emotions are not logical, but reactions to them are predictable.
YES YES YES !! The government should have put his body on a nationwide tour and used the money to pay off the war –would have been a sell-out tour ! since that cant happen now at least we could see a photo to have something to spit on !!!
Gunshot wounds are pretty messy. I don't feel the need to absolutely see the photos to have anything proven to me. On another matter, what the heck is going on with Blitzer? Bin Laden was responsible for 9-11 that killed thousands of people and ruined countless lives and he wants to make a big deal out of the guy being unarmed? Those people in the Twin Towers weren't armed either.
The photos of OBL should be shown to the United Nations.
Let the world leaders determine if it is him.
Let the world community decide if the photos should be shown to everyone.
Absolutley, it is the only way that Americans will know for sure that this man is dead. It will put conspiracy theorist to rest on the situation, I think that is what will lead to realeasing of the photo.
I don't believe that photos will make a difference. Skeptics will continue to create their own conspiracy theories no matter what evidence is offered. The release of photos may also cause angry followers of Bin Laden to become even more enraged, increasing the threat of attack.
Do not release graphic photos that will only cause children nightmares. We know he is dead and showing the pictures is ghoulish and serves no purpose.
I think the US should show the photos of bin Laden's body. First, it will stop any conspiracy theories that he's really not dead. Second, the pictures will stop more nightmares than they might create, especially in an era where kids have all kinds of access to gory pictures, movies and tv shows. Anyone ever see "Bones," or "CSI"?
I believe that the photos ought to be released so that the world may put this issue to rest. My understanding is that the administration decided against bombing the compound for the very reason that it would not have produced a body; now that they have proof of a body, it makes sense to follow through and show it. I suppose, however, that they could request that the media not display it on television and have it posted on The White House's website instead. It would be slightly less inflammatory this way.
Show it. The terrorists started this war, they showed beheadings of their victoms. They would show photos of a high value target that they would have killed. Show them what is coming their way.
No..Why should we lowwer our nation to there level we claim to be better than that do we not?
One reason they may not want to release the picture is clear. They captured him, he is alive, and now the CIA or whom ever can do ANYTHING they want to him. Perhaps the death was fabricated to give Americans closure and add validity to this very expensive, very long war. The point is the government has to be running all kinds of black ops that we will never hear anything about. The government wants us to hear what they want and that is just how it is.
If they can show 9/11 and our towers falling on the television, then they should be able to show Osama Bin Ladens Body on the television.
We have paid with out lifes. And i believe, If i am correct, You could see the hanging of Saddam. So show it to us. We deserve, Our men and women have payed for this with their lifes. We deserve to see the photos.
Of course the photo's should be released. The relatives of the thousands of people killed on 9-11 are entitled to some satisfaction as well as the rest of America. The President serves at the pleasure of the people and is elected to carry out the citizens wishes and I thi nk it's obvious the citizens of this Country want to see this dead TERRORIST. Why is the White House so concerned with what the rest of the world thinks ? Man UP !!!!!! RELEASE THE PHOTO'S
Yes, Bin Laden has killed thousands of american people and seeing is a whole lot better than hearing that we got him. There is something about seeing the photos.
Absolutely not! He was buried at sea to prevent the location from become linked to a martyr, releasing his image defeats that purpose. So devotees can't visit the site, instead they can take his dead image on the wall and treat that the same way. It would be a HUGE mistake to release the pictures.
Besides, if he was alive, don't you think he would have spoken up to laugh and ridicule us for our mistake in killing the wrong person. He's gone, finally, good riddance, time to move on. Just because he's dead doesn't mean the war on terrorism is. There's still lots of work to do in this area. The WORST thing that could happen is that we get complacent.
David
Philadelphia metro area
You said it Jack, how much more can we anger them.
We killed him! He's DEAD.
I think they are just about as angry as they are going to get right now.
If we don't show the pictures are they not going to blow something up?
Cowards need to have their weaknesses exposed. I think this will do it.
Thanks for listening,
Ron
Yes, let the people decide if they want to view the picture of not. We've seen other high value targets, this is no different.
Although, we American citizens are interested in knowing that he was actually captured and killed, just remember how outraged American families were when photos of captured American soldiers were shown being tortured and drug through the streets. If our government is satisfied that Osama has been killed, then that is enough for me.
Would that be more or less gruesome and graphic than the average action/adventure movie or video game which kids are exposed to on a daily basis? As for backlash, we can pretty much expect that anyway, and really what's the difference from the daily possible terrorist threat that has become the norm since 9/11. Just release the photos before
Trump the chump starts demanding the death certificate. Wait for it . . .
I don't think the photographs should be released. Of secondary importance is whether or not it might inflame the Muslim extremists. Most importantly, we as a nation should be relieved and yes, happy that Bin Laden is dead. I don't think it makes us any better a nation to publish the pictures for what seemingly must be curiosity or even worse, so that we can wallow in his death. He is dead, we all believe it to be true, and we should move on.
It is such a relief to see justice for the victims of 911 as well as the country that lost loved ones. Please let us not display those pictures for all of our children to see. They experience and are exposed to enough violence in ours cities and suburbs. Those that want to believe will and those that do not will never. Just like Tupac bin Laden is DEAD!!!!!
I personally don't care if the pictures get release, but what I do care about is worrying whether or not its going to offend the muslim community...please, do you think cared when American citizens were falling to their death out of the windows of the trade towers? Did they care that fathers and mothers and children would never be able to say I love you again to a family member? Please I'm so tired aof hearing about political correctness!
absolutely. no doubt about it. saddam's hanging can be found all over the net. that was released. it gave proof positive of his death and the american people deserve no less now. i am quite sure it would give the grieving families a lot of satisfaction to see that he is really dead.
Release the photos. Show our enemies what will happen if they persist in being a serious threat.. If we can get a guy with unlimited resources the average Joe will think twice before joining forces with our enemies but only if you give them an obvious example of the probable outcome, death by bullet wound to the head.
Yes, not for morbid curiosity or verification of UBD's demise, but to change our mind's eye picture of this savage.
Yes, we should be able to see the pictures of Bin Laden. We as american tax payers have been paying for this mission to get Bin Ladon for close to 10 years and we may not be allowed to see the pictures of the outcome for what we've been paying for all these years??
-tbenne33
Of course they should be made public. Taxpayers deserve full disclosure of the entire capture. After all, we, the taxpayers paid for the operation. Congrats to our super Navy Seals! The assasinations of Saddam's sons was made public within 48 hours.
I feel strongly that the U.S. citizens, and free world have the right to see the body of Osama Bin Laden. We all had to see the hundreds of visible dead bodies post 9-11. This Man, who had taken pride in showing videos of the decapitation of soldiers, media members and other non-radical muslims has earned the open right to have his deceased body shown to the world he has terrorized for decades.
Absolutely not! It would serve no purpose but to further the frenzy that already exists. I'm more concerned about the retaliation that will surely follow.
I don't need to see a picture of a dead Bin Laden. I believe it. Trust me if this was a hoax. Do you really think a cowardly ego maniac like, Bin Laden would just go quietly into the night... no his evil over inflated ego wouldn't allow it. He would be blasting video images of himself for the whole world to see that he is alive and ready to do more damage. Let him to continue to rot in the bottom of the ocean and let is all focus on healing and moving forward to working to make this world a better place.
The image of Bin Laden's body can be no more gruesome than those we saw from 9/11.
Seeing confirmation of his death would bring great closure to this whole terrible ordeal.
We can handle it.
They all got to watch and see as our family and friends in the twin towers Passed, there for i believe we should get to see the pics of his dead body, no matter how gross it may be. It was real gross to see all those people falling to their deaths at the twin towers. They showed the US that so give us our due and show the pics of a job well done by our seals. Way to go guys!!!
America does not need to display bin Laden's face or body. There's an old story that it's better to celebrate a better way of life and freedom from fear than to celebrate a death.
There is no doubt, RELEASE THEM! Did Bin Laden hesitate to release video on Daniel Pearl or the others that were decapitated? No he did not. I say release the pictures and videos in 3d version.
American Govt. Release the Photo of a Dead Bin Laden So the World Can See.
56% of American People Want to See the Picture ...
Jen Fad
Sayreville, NJ
Show them. Satisfy everyone. We all wanted him dead. We all want to see him dead no matter whether someone believes it or not. I understand the grounds for not displaying the picture, but I am sure a lot of people want to see it no matter ho gruesome it is. Americans deserve to see the wrath that happened to him. Did he deserve to see the towers fall? No but he was watching with a bag of popcorn right next to him. Satisfy the people of the U.S. and show us his dead corpse.
Yes, I believe they SHOULD release a photo...so many people may be skeptical about his final demise. This way...there will be no doubt that he is dead and gone. AND his followers will also see that he was killed and no more propaganda that he was NOT killed will also be settled.
I think they should release the pictures and leave it up to the people if they want to see it or not, some of us want to see it because I personaly am skeptic about this whole thing. also the video of the operation should be released. dont deside on whan the americans can see ans can not see, leave it up to us. who ever dont wanna see it, then just dont...it is the only way most of americans will see that it is not another conspiracy nor a strategy of this president and his cabinet to try to get votes, and if it is, it would be the greatest deception in the history of our country...
I believe they should show pictures of Bin Laden, regardless of how gruesome they are. What he did to the United States, especially on 9/11, was the most gruesome pictures that all of us American's have to live with for the rest of our lives. Why shouldn't all those who loss loved one's that day have the same right? I believe we all deserve to see with our own eyes that it is truly over this time and that he is truly DEAD!!!
If you think that showing the murder's face will make America feel better about the loss of life on 9-11 there is a sicker society than I though and have seen in my 65 years. Why would we show the picture of a sick-o when we did not show the pictures of the fallen at 9-11 when they were bloody and limp?We did not because it was sick. I am a Navy vet and do not need to see to believe, are you? Do you? Jack, Let it go.
Hey Jack.
Extremely tough call. In the era of photo shop and other editing programs, these photos will be sadly doubted by some and then perhaps edited later. Other issue of course is the graphic nature of them. I can handle it, but I understand the concern. Still, I think we need to put some kind of photographic evidence out.
Nick,
Long Island, NY
The photos should NOT be released. It will inflame attitudes and establish a precedent that is unnecessary. The potential impact on local jurisdictions and local media will also be affected to then start releasing photo's of local crime events. America should take the higher ethical ground.
No. First, in our culture we don't hang dead bodies in the public square, and let's be honest – that's what this is. Americans want to see a corpse. Second, doing stupid self-serving things that aid our enemies' recruitment programs was the specialty of the Bush administration. I guess we'll see if this crew is wiser, or not.
Sure! There are enough reasons for the American people to see the evidence that OBL is dead. We all know that it won't be a pretty image. In fact, our government needs to build up its credibility again, and our enemies should see first hand what's gonna happen to them if they dare to attack us. Sooner or later, they will be grilled.
No we don't need to see his body. Is it another conspiracy? Our troops are targeted already, we as US citizens are targeted too, why we should put more anger out there and give Osama's supporters an excuse to hurt us harder.
Doesn't we say a picture says more that 100 words? And to all of those who don't know anything about security isses, this is a matter way above our pay grades. Just say thanks to our military for keeping us safe for 10 years and our Navy Seals that finished the job.
God Bless our Military men and women.
Jack,
Yes, Al Qaeda is pretty steamed now, but releasing the photographs is a mistake. Photographs have a permanence that lends itself to keeping this death ever present in the hearts and minds of his followers. Handing extremists a tool to recruit members is wrong. If news organizations need to see the photos, they should be allowed to see them for verification, not for publishing, sensationalizing the event, or for profit.
They should let the pictures been seen. A parent can decide if a child should see it. I also hope the Navy Seal that shot him was singing God Bless America.
the united states should show the pictures of bin ladden . after all we had to sit in disbelief and watch what he had done to us here in the united states
yes, i absolutely think the photos should be released. even a video of the raid. the white house is worried about sensitivity issues? well what about when there were 1000's of people jumping/falling out of a 200 story burning building? no one had a problem broadcasting that live. where was their sensitivity chip then? i watched a video of saddam hussein being hanged, yet i can't see the man who is 'responsible' for killing thousands of people. there are pictures of saddam, his sons, pablo escobar dead, and they were all top criminals. the #1 man on fbi's most wanted list has been killed and captured, then show us.
Sure i think they should release the picture....I mean, the media can broadcast the death of 3000 people on 9/11 and film innocent people jumping off the WTC to there death. But for some reason it's all the sudden wrong to show a picture of the madman who caused all of that carnage...Gimme a break!!! Half of America does not trust the word of the government in the first place, so they want visible proof....
As a young teen, arab american, from my perspective i think the photo should be released. It will give more than half the american's closure to be sure he is really dead. I've seen alot of brutally viloent pictures on tv, i dont see why this is any different. Al Qaeda is already mad that Osama is dead, posting a picture wont change how mad they are. A lot of people can't take the governments word for it, if people do not wish to see it, warn the veiwers before you show it, so they can choose not to look at it.
The pictures can't be any worse than some of the game our children play on their xboxes or what they have seen on tv.
Show us the evidence.
Yes, publish the photo of the dead, bloody face of Osama bin Laden. The picture cannot be any worse than the "dead bodies" seen on any of the TV police procedurals, such as "Body of Proof, or CSI, NCIS etc. ETC!!!
Displaying Bin Laden's gruesome picture is not what I would consider supportive of American values and ideals. We must not do things which will make others view us as acting out of vengeance or do things which will cost the lives of others people.
I think that the dead body should not be posted on the internet. They should of course discuss where the body was kept, and news about that. Personally, I wouldn't want people to see my body after I had been shot, and killed. I think we should give him the smallest amount of respect, and not post the pictures of him. I agree that the Muslims would not appriciate it, and that woundn't make anything better. So keep the photos hidden.
-Thanks!
No. I agree with those posting here, that no, the photos should not be released. That would make us no better than...... terrorists.
Some Conservatives are spreading the lie, that Osama bin Laden is not dead. It is just as idiotic as the lie that President Obama is not a U.S. citizen.
Do people really believe that the Navy Seals, Joint Chiefs, all of U.S. Intelligence would ........ lie....... about this?! Crazy.
To claify what I mean about the pics. Everytime pics and vids are shown of 9/11 those jerks are gettting to relive and rejoice what they have done. Let them see pics of what they will look like if they continue in their quest to harm the U.S.
Since the Seals had cameras on their helmets...what about a still picture just before they killed him? But I suppose that wouldn't be enough because he would still be alive in that pic. Or a picture with the graphic parts blurred out? Or would that blur too much of his face?? I personally would not have a problem seeing the whole gruesome thing!!
Denise
Toledo OH
No, there is nothing to be gained by releasing photos or any information about how he was found, how the mission was carried out or what other information was gathered at the compound. All this would do is give potential enemies and/or future targets insight into how they might be able to hide better or defend themselves. Bin Laden is dead and the fact that no one will ever hear from him again should be "proof" enough.
If it has been classified, then no, the American people have no right to see it! Especially if any photo will enable our enemies. This idea that the U.S. Government has to share everything with the public is nonsense! The President and the Pentagon have kept secrets from the public (and Congress) for generations, and that's a very good thing... most Americans couldn't handle the stark reality of the truth!
Absolutely not. The DNA evidence is more conclusive than photos/videos for those who need evidence. What would purpose would it serve the American government to lie about it. I don't understand the US seeming fixation on conspiracy theories. bin Laden is dead. Let's move on and not fuel his followers with any additional excuses to exact revenge on the west.
No, the USA should not show the pictures.
They're only showing them to appease all the Conspiracy Theorists, who will immediately scream "they're fake" just like they did with Obama's birth certificate.
Release of the pictures will not appease these people, so why bother?
I think the American people deserve the right to see these pictures. For those that don't want to see them...don't look!
The pictures should be shown. We are at war with Al Qaeda and the psychological damage it will cause in it's rank and file would be another blow to their organization. We need to defeat them, not worry about whether it will hurt someone's feelings. We are at war, let's not forget it.