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American intelligence for the first time uncovers the name of Osama bin Laden’s trusted courier but cannot locate him.
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American intelligence identifies areas in Pakistan where the courier and his brother have operated but cannot pinpoint exactly where they live.
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American intelligence locates the brothers’ residence, a compound in Abbottabad. The compound is so large, secluded and secured that analysts conclude it must shelter a high value target.
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The C.I.A. begins to work with President Obama on assessments that lead them to believe that Bin Laden may be located at the compound.
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United States government authorities determine that there was a sound intelligence basis to pursue this aggressively and develop courses of action.
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President Obama holds a series of National Security Council meetings to develop options for capturing or killing Bin Laden. The decision was made to execute Bin Laden.
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President Obama authorizes the operation before flying to Alabama to inspect tornado damage.
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United States forces raid Bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad around 1 a.m. Pakistan time. Bin Laden, three other men and a woman are killed in a firefight. No Americans were killed.
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President Obama announces Bin Laden’s death to the world at 11:35 p.m.
