“Osama was just a symbol of anti-Americanism that is a product of responses to several decades of American foreign policies in the Middle East,” Asani said.

Instead, Asani said he thinks the details of the mission could help determine future U.S.-Pakistani relations. If it turns out that Pakistani intelligence tipped off American forces, he said the relationship may improve.

If not, Pakistan may find itself on the defensive.

“The credibility of the Pakistani government will be questioned because they kept on denying that he was in Pakistan,” Asani said.

Masoud said he does not expect Middle East nations to place a heavy emphasis on bin Laden’s death.

“All of those countries wanted to see him killed or captured as well,” he said. “I’m not sure this will really impact our policy towards the Middle East, especially since that region is undergoing some really dramatic changes,” he said.

Masoud nonetheless praised Obama for distinguishing in his speech between Islamic fundamentalism and the average Muslim.

“I liked the fact that President Obama was saying this because this is not really addressed to American Muslims; this was addressed to Muslims around the world,” Masoud said. “You just want to make sure you’re not framing our killing of Osama bin Laden as a victory against a Muslim freedom fighter or Muslim leader.”

“There will be also a sense of justice among both Muslims and non-Muslims alike,” said Asani, “especially those who have lost family and friends in Al-Qaeda attacks,” Asani said.

Masoud said Americans should reflect on the moment and realize the immediate implications of bin Laden’s death.

“Let’s not lose sight of the fact that this is a very good thing to have happened,” Masoud said. “It’s a very good thing that he was killed and captured and that we never gave up on that ambition and that we were dogged in trying to bring him to justice.”

A PRECISE STRIKE

The firefight that killed bin Laden took place on a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, a city about 40 miles north of Islamabad.

Three other men—two of bin Laden’s couriers and his adult son—and one woman, were killed in the battle, according to senior administration officials, who added that the woman was used as a shield by male combatants.

No American lives were lost, though a helicopter was grounded due to mechanical failure.