The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested a suspect identified as Zubayar al-Bakoush, who is alleged to have participated in the 2012 attack on a U.S. facility in Benghazi, Libya. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest on Friday, stating that al-Bakoush was transferred to the United States overnight. This development was shared alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest on Friday, stating that al-Bakoush was transferred to the United States overnight.
The 2012 Benghazi Attack
On September 11, 2012, militants from the group Ansar al-Sharia attacked a U.S. diplomatic compound and a nearby CIA outpost in Benghazi. The assault resulted in the deaths of four Americans: U.S. Ambassador to Libya Chris Stevens, Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty. Pirro confirmed that the families of the victims were informed of al-Bakoush's capture prior to the public announcement.
Indictment and Allegations
Following the announcement, a 13-page indictment against al-Bakoush was unsealed in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. He faces seven charges, which include murder, attempted murder, providing material support to terrorists, and arson. Al-Bakoush is expected to appear in court later on Friday.
The indictment alleges that al-Bakoush resided in Benghazi and was a member of Ansar al-Sharia. Prosecutors state he was part of the armed group that attacked the U.S. mission where Stevens and his security team were located. The document details that approximately 20 militants breached the main gate and set fire to buildings, leading to the deaths of Stevens and Smith. Al-Bakoush is alleged to have entered the compound after the fires began, conducted surveillance, and attempted to access vehicles.
A subsequent mortar attack on a CIA annex, located about a mile from the U.S. mission, killed CIA contractors Woods and Doherty.
Ongoing Investigations and Previous Prosecutions
The State Department and CIA collaborated with the FBI in al-Bakoush's arrest, which occurred "overseas." Officials declined to provide specific details regarding his tracking or apprehension. Prosecutors affirmed their commitment to pursuing other individuals responsible for the 2012 attack.
Two other individuals have previously been prosecuted in the U.S. for their roles in the Benghazi attack:
- Ahmed Abu Khatallah: Captured in 2014, he was acquitted of murder charges in 2017 but convicted on other counts. His initial 22-year sentence was increased to 28 years in 2024.
- Mustafa al-Imam: Captured in 2017, he was found guilty at trial in 2019 and sentenced to 19 years in prison.