FBI arrests alleged key participant in 2012 Benghazi attack, Attorney General says

Federal authorities say a major breakthrough has been made in the long-running investigation into the 2012 Benghazi terror attack.

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Friday that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has arrested Zubayar Al-Bakoush, describing him as a “key participant” in the attack on the US diplomatic compound in Benghazi.

Prosecutors say Al-Bakoush is charged with the murders of Ambassador Chris Stevens and State Department employee Sean Smith, along with attempted murder, conspiracy, and arson. Two former Navy SEALs, Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, were also killed in the assault.

Bondi said the arrest was the result of coordinated efforts between the FBI, the State Department, and the CIA. Officials confirmed Al-Bakoush was taken into custody overseas before being transported to the United States.

Court documents allege Al-Bakoush was a member of Ansar al-Sharia, the militant group that claimed responsibility for the attack. Prosecutors say he entered the diplomatic compound shortly after the violence began and attempted to break into staff vehicles.

US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the case had been sealed for more than a decade until Friday’s arrest and confirmed she spoke with family members of the victims ahead of the announcement. Her office will lead the prosecution.

Officials emphasized that more suspects may still be at large and vowed to continue pursuing anyone involved, regardless of how much time has passed.

The Benghazi attack sparked years of political controversy and multiple investigations, with Republicans sharply criticizing the Obama administration and then–Secretary of State Hillary Clinton over security failures and the government’s response.

Previous arrests tied to the case include Ahmed Abu-Khattalah in 2014 and Mustafa al-Imam in 2017, both of whom were later convicted in US courts.

Federal officials say Friday’s arrest represents another step toward accountability for one of the deadliest attacks on US diplomatic personnel in recent history.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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