The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Benghazi

On September 11, 2012, the United States consulate in Benghazi, Libya was attacked by Islamist militants. This attack resulted in the deaths of four Americans, including the United States Ambassador to Libya, J. Christopher Stevens. The attack and its aftermath have been the subject of controversy and speculation, resulting in many questions from the public. This blog post aims to provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Benghazi.

What Happened in Benghazi?

On September 11, 2012, a group of Islamist militants attacked the United States consulate in Benghazi, Libya. The attack began at night and lasted several hours. Four Americans were killed in the attack, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. The attack was later determined to be a coordinated terrorist attack.

What Was the United States Doing in Benghazi?

The United States had established a consulate in Benghazi in order to support the Libyan people during their transition from dictatorship to democracy. The consulate’s main mission was to provide diplomatic support to Libya, facilitate trade and investment, and support the Libyan people’s efforts to rebuild their country. The United States also had a small CIA presence in Benghazi that was focused on gathering intelligence about terrorist activity in the region.

Why Wasn’t the Consulate Better Protected?

The United States consulate in Benghazi was an interim facility, and as such, was not as heavily fortified as a permanent embassy. However, the consulate did have a security detail that included both Libyan and American security personnel. It has been suggested that the security detail was inadequate or that the consulate’s security was compromised in some way. Investigations into the attack have also revealed security lapses, organizational and management problems, and communication failures that may have contributed to the attack.

What Was the United States’ Response to the Attack?

The United States immediately condemned the attack and launched an investigation into the incident. The US also sent in military reinforcements to help secure the embassy and evacuate personnel. The US carried out airstrikes against extremist groups in Libya in the weeks following the attack. The US government also offered a $10 million reward for information leading to the capture or conviction of those responsible for the attack.

What Did the Investigation Find?

Several investigations were conducted by the United States government and other organizations, including the Accountability Review Board (ARB). The ARB found that security at the consulate was inadequate and that communication failures within the State Department and between the State Department and other agencies hampered the response to the attack. The ARB made several recommendations for improving embassy security and interagency cooperation.

Were There Political Motivations Behind the Benghazi Controversy?

Benghazi has been the subject of intense political controversy, with some accusing the United States government and then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton of mishandling the attack and its aftermath. Investigations into the Benghazi attack were conducted by multiple Congressional committees, with some accusing the Obama administration of deliberately misleading the public about the nature of the attack. However, several independent investigations have found no evidence of wrongdoing or a cover-up.

What Has Happened Since the Attack?

Since the Benghazi attack, the United States has continued to provide support to the Libyan people and government. The US has also taken steps to improve embassy security and interagency cooperation. Several individuals have been charged and convicted in connection with the attack, and the US government continues to seek justice for the victims.

Conclusion

The Benghazi attack was a tragic event that resulted in the loss of four American lives. Investigations into the attack have revealed security lapses, communication failures, and other problems that need to be addressed. However, the controversy surrounding Benghazi has also been politicized and used for political gain. It is important to separate fact from fiction and focus on improving embassy security and preventing future attacks.

Thank you for reading!

A Comprehensive Insider’s Guide to Exploring Benghazi

Are you planning a trip to Benghazi and looking for unique things to do? Look no further! As a local resident, I will take you through the city’s most interesting attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Beyond the well-known Roman amphitheater, there are many hidden gems worth exploring in Benghazi. A lesser-known gem is the old Ottoman quarter of the city, known as the Medina. Here you can wander down winding alleys and back streets to find traditional shops, small cafes, and souvenir markets. Another unique spot is the Red Castle Museum, a restored castle-like fortress perched atop a hill in downtown Benghazi, which boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from Libya’s history.

Dining Spots

Benghazi’s restaurant scene may not be the most diverse, but it delivers in quality. Restaurants serve Libyan cuisine, which is predominantly based on rice, meat, vegetables and a mix of spices, creating delicious aromatic smells. Don’t miss the chance to try the traditional dish, Couscous, a stew made with vegetables, chicken, or lamb. A traditional food spot is Al-Karakara, which offers a signature dish of Libyan meatloaf and delicious mint tea.

Cultural Experiences

Libyan culture is a fascinating mix of Arab and Berber traditions. The city contains several museums representing the unique history and culture of Libya, notably the Omar Al Maddi Cultural Centre and the Benghazi Ethnographic Museum. One cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed is attending a Libyan wedding. It’s an unforgettable celebration steeped in tradition that involves music, dance, food, and poetry.

Local History

Benghazi has a rich history that dates back centuries, with several tales of conflict and power struggles to excavate and explore. Take a trip to the Tobruk War Cemetery, where countless soldiers and innocent civilians who lost their lives in the battle of Tobruk are buried. Additionally, the city is home to the ruins of the ancient city of Euesperides, which contains valuable information on the historical significance of Benghazi

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you are seeking adventures that take you off the beaten path, look no further. Have a cup of tea sitting on the beach near Fatahel-Sour, to admire the beautiful view of the Mediterranean sea. Take a trip out into the Sahara Desert, where you can ride camels, watch traditional performances and camp under the stars. Another suggestion is visiting Al-Jabal al-Gharbi, a mountainous region located in the far west of Libya, where the picturesque valleys meet the white-blue silhouettes of the towns on the mountain peaks.

Benghazi is a city with a rich and unique history and culture, with so many hidden gems to uncover. This insider’s guide merely scratches the surface of what this beautiful city has to offer. So, pack your bags, and come to feel embraced by this city’s warmth, hospitality, and striking historic landscapes.