Video: From Hawaii, President Obama's speaks on terrorism and Al-Qaeda's attempt to blow up Northwest flight #253 -- Aired December 28, 2009
- "We do not yet have all the answers about this latest attempt, but those who would slaughter innocent men, women and children must know that the United States will do more than simply strengthen our defenses," Obama told reporters in a break from his Christmas holiday in Hawaii.
- "We will continue to use every element of our national power to disrupt, to dismantle and defeat the violent extremists who threaten us, whether they are from Afghanistan or Pakistan, Yemen or Somalia, or anywhere where they are plotting attacks against the U.S. homeland."
- "This was a serious reminder of the dangers that we face and the nature of those who threaten our homeland," Obama said. "Had the suspect succeeded in bringing down that plane, it could have killed nearly 300 passengers and crew -- innocent civilians preparing to celebrate the holidays with their families and friends."
- "Apparently the suspect in the Christmas incident was in this system, but not on a watch list, such as the so-called no-fly list," Obama said. "So I have ordered a thorough review, not only of how information related to the subject was handled, but of the overall watch-list system and how it can be strengthened."
- "The American people should be assured that we are doing everything in our power to keep you and your family safe and secure during this busy holiday season," the president said.
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