Diplomatic Security Failure in Benghazi, Libya, September 11, 2012

Abstract Terrorists attacked the United States diplomatic compound and adjoining CIA Annex in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012. Despite repeated warnings from officials about security risks Tripoli we argue that intelligence, security, organizational deficiencies within Department of State created vulnerabilities contributing to deaths four Americans, including Ambassador Christopher Stephens. Scholarly assessment these failures has been precluded as a consequence incident’s use partisan attacks. Republicans Congress used investigations into incident damage presumed 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton, who was then President Obama’s secretary state. Setting aside political considerations examining led attack is important protect personnel abroad future.