foreclose

[masterding]

Quoted from VOA news
"The Iranian president, who at the U.N. last year called for an investigation of so-called “hidden elements” of the 2001 attacks, suggested Osama bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces last May to foreclose an inquiry."
The definition of foreclose by webster is " to take back property because the money owed for the property has not been paid",and it's often followed by "on". So what does "foreclose "mean here?
thanks!

[emsr2d2]

Quoted from VOA news
"The Iranian president, who at the U.N. last year called for an investigation of so-called “hidden elements” of the 2001 attacks, suggested Osama bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces last May to foreclose an inquiry."
The definition of foreclose by webster is " to take back property because the money owed for the property has not been paid",and it's often followed by "on". So what does "foreclose "mean here?
thanks!

They may have used the incorrect word if that is the only definition of foreclose, but I understand what they mean. They are suggesting that Osama bin Laden was killed so that the planned enquiry would be closed down early (would not be finished).

Fore = in advance/early
Close = to close

[SoothingDave]

"Forestall" may have been the word they wanted to use.

[emsr2d2]

"Forestall" may have been the word they wanted to use.

Aha! Good point!

[Afit]

Quoted from VOA news
"The Iranian president, who at the U.N. last year called for an investigation of so-called “hidden elements” of the 2001 attacks, suggested Osama bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces last May to foreclose an inquiry."
The definition of foreclose by webster is " to take back property because the money owed for the property has not been paid",and it's often followed by "on". So what does "foreclose "mean here?
thanks!

foreclose in your sentence means this:

foreclose verb (PREVENT) - definition in British English Dictionary & Thesaurus - Cambridge Dictionary Online