US News

Federal appeals court considers Saudi Arabia immunity bid in 9/11 litigation

Judges took the case under advisement after hearing arguments on whether claims against the kingdom can move toward trial.

Updated Oct 8, 2026 · 16:36 UTC3 reports

The short version

A federal appeals court panel in New York heard oral arguments regarding whether Saudi Arabia can be sued in ongoing 9/11 litigation.[NBC News]
Saudi Arabia asked judges to reverse a lower court decision and dismiss the claims based on foreign sovereign immunity.[BBC News]
The appeals panel concluded the hearing without indicating when or how it will issue its eventual decision.[BBC News · NBC News]

Three federal appeals judges in New York heard arguments over whether legal claims accusing Saudi Arabia of providing aid in the 9/11 attacks may proceed.[NBC News]
Saudi Arabia petitioned the Court of Appeals to overturn a lower court ruling, asserting foreign sovereign immunity protects it from prosecution in American courts.[BBC News]
Judge William Nardini concluded the hearing by noting the complexity of the matter and stating the court took the case under advisement.[BBC News]
Victims' relative Terry Strada stated she felt encouraged by the judicial questioning and the strong turnout of families.[NBC News]

The panel has not provided a timetable for when it will rule on the sovereign immunity defense.[BBC News · NBC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.