Giuliani Recovers from Pneumonia Linked to 9/11 Dust Exposure

Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani's current hospitalization stems from serious health effects tied to his actions in New York City after the 9/11 terror attacks almost 25 years ago. The Republican's condition is improving, a Giuliani spokesman told Fox News Digital.

Giuliani was in his final year as mayor during his two terms when terrorists hijacked airliners and flew them into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, killing thousands. He stood two blocks away when the first tower collapsed at 9:59 a.m. ET on that sunny Tuesday and experienced the effects up close.

Spokesman Ted Goodman said Monday that the 81-year-old former mayor and presidential candidate is recovering from pneumonia. He remains under observation at a Florida hospital as a precautionary measure.

"On September 11, Mayor Giuliani ran toward the towers to help those in need, which led to a restrictive airway disease diagnosis," Goodman said in a statement. He later posted it to X.

"This disease adds complications to any emerging respiratory issue, and the virus quickly overwhelmed his body, requiring mechanical ventilation to maintain his blood pressure."

The condition, sometimes known as World Trade Center Cough, results from breathing in heavily alkaline dust from pulverized concrete, asbestos and glass when the towers fell. The collapse covered about one-fifth of Manhattan Island in dust.

Thousands of first responders have suffered from or died of the disease. Comedian Jon Stewart has publicly advocated for their cause.

Goodman said Giuliani now breathes on his own with primary medical providers at his side.

"Mayor Giuliani is the ultimate fighter — as he has demonstrated throughout his life — and he is winning this battle," he said.

"His family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love and support. The mayor believes in the power of prayer, and we are feeling that strength today. He remains in critical but stable condition. Keep the prayers coming."

Giuliani is receiving treatment at Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach Post reported.