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A retrospective analysis marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks examines how the phrase 'war on terror' and related terminology reshaped global discourse on conflict, security and human rights. Commentators argue the language helped normalize expanded surveillance and, according to further reporting, gave far-right Islophobia in Europe added legitimacy, reach and electoral force over the past two decades. Marking the anniversary itself, solemn commemorations were held in New York, at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania under the banner 'Never, ever forget,' while in New York a far-right rally targeting Islam was also held outside City Hall, illustrating the continuing and contested legacy of the attacks on American and European politics.