Justice Department Announces Arrest of Key Participant in 2012 Benghazi Attack
Zubayar al-Bakoush faces charges related to killing of US Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three others
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest on Friday, marking a significant development in one of the most politically contentious attacks on U.S. diplomatic personnel in recent history.
The September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi killed Ambassador Stevens, Foreign Service Information Management Officer Sean Smith, and CIA contractors Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty.
Al-Bakoush now faces federal charges related to his alleged role in planning and executing the assault. The arrest comes after years of investigation.
Analysis
Why This Matters
The Benghazi attack remains one of the deadliest assaults on U.S. diplomatic personnel in decades.
Background
The 2012 attack occurred on the anniversary of September 11, when armed militants stormed the U.S. compound.
What to Watch
The prosecution will face scrutiny over evidence gathered in Libya.