Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad wanted to visit ground zero . New York City officials said no because site is under construction . Comment: `` It is appalling that President Ahmadinejad , one of the world 's leading sponsors of terror , would find it appropriate to visit this hallowed ground , '' State Department spokesman Tom Casey said . Leaders call request `` audacious , '' `` unacceptable ''
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad wanted to visit ground zero . New York City officials said no because site is under construction . Comment: Leaders call request `` audacious , '' `` unacceptable ''