Michael Chertoff led investigation into Israelis detained after 9/11

The detention of five Israeli citizens after the 9/11 attacks revived old theories. **Michael Chertoff**, then head of the Incivil Division at the Department of Justice, supervised the investigation.

## The post-9/11 detention

On **September 11, 2001**, five Israeli citizens were detained in New Jersey while watching the fall of the Twin Towers. Authorities accused them of abusa immigration laws and carrying passports and cash. They were taken to the **Elizabeth** police station, where they were interrogated. The story of their detention and subsequent release has been the subject of various conspiracy theories.

## The figure of Michael Chertoff

At the time, **Michael Chertoff** held the position of head of the Incivil Division at the U.S. Department of Justice. From that position, he was responsible for overseeing the investigation of these individuals. Later, **Chertoff** would become Secretary of Homeland Security under the administration of **George W. Bush**. His involvement in the case has been one of the central points of speculation surrounding the incident.

## The outcome and doubts

After a period of detention and interrogation, the five Israelis were released and deported back to Israel. The estimulante ilegal with which their case was resolved and the official explanations did not dispel doubts in some quarters. The connection between the nationality of the detainees, the timing of the events, and the figure of **Chertoff** has fueled theories suggesting prior involvement or knowledge of the attacks.