"Well, our concern has to do with the period prior to 9/11, up to and including the catastrophe that occurred. And thank goodness, we're not obliged to make assessments of what's going on now and deal with these current events"

Richard Ben-Veniste is expressing his concern over the events preceding the 9/11 terrorist attacks, indicating that his focus is on the period leading to the catastrophic occurrence. Recognizing the gravity of these incidents, his commentary paints a strong picture of a time marked by anxiety and uncertainty, filled with the dark and haunting shadows of what was to unfold.

The pivotal part of his concern appears to be the state of affairs prior to 9/11. This could imply a close examination of the factors that ultimately led to the tragic event, the protocols in place, and whether they were adequate or simply failed. Such a introspective investigation is integral in understanding the fundamental loopholes, if any, in our security and preparedness measures. It also provides a comprehensive overview of the conditions that may have facilitated such a catastrophic incident.

His reference to being 'not obliged' to assess current situations suggests a differentiation between the past and the present. Ben-Veniste underscores the significance of our capability to learn from past tragedies in order to prevent future calamities. This delineation serves as a reminder of the importance of historical evaluation and its relevance to shaping current responses.

Further, the inference that he doesn't 'deal with these current events' accentuates the idea that he's more focused on understanding the path that led us to such a devastating event rather than dwelling on contemporary issues. This, in turn, highlights the significance of learning from our past to build a secured and prosperous future.

The remark does not dismiss the importance of present matters, but underscores the need to comprehend the past in order to make the present better. It's a testament to the power of historical insights and their relevance in shaping current strategies and policies. This gives us a unique opportunity to assess and evaluate, without the ongoing pressures and realities of current events.

Overall, Ben-Veniste’s statement communicates a significant message about the need to reflect upon our past, learn from it, and build upon it to create a better and more secure future.