Unseen Footage Ties Benghazi Attack Suspect to US Embassy Assault

Video evidence puts Zubayar Al-Bakoush at the scene of the 2012 attack that killed 4 Americans

Feb. 7, 2026 at 4:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Newly obtained video footage from the 2012 attack on the US embassy compound in Benghazi, Libya has been used as evidence to charge Zubayar Al-Bakoush with murder and terrorism. The footage shows Al-Bakoush dressed in camouflage and standing outside the embassy gates as a group of armed men breached the compound, leading to the deaths of four Americans including US Ambassador Chris Stevens.

Why it matters

The Benghazi attack was a major security breach and loss of American life that raised questions about embassy security and the US government's response. This new evidence directly ties a suspect to the scene of the crime, which could help bring some closure and accountability for the victims' families.

The details

The video footage, used as evidence in a related trial, shows Al-Bakoush, 58, dressed in camouflage and standing outside the embassy gates as a group of about 20 armed men breached the compound on September 11, 2012. The indictment states that Al-Bakoush and the group violently entered the US Mission, with the conspirators armed with AK-47 rifles and rocket-propelled grenades. In addition to the video, other evidence links Al-Bakoush to the attack, including his phone contacts with another convicted conspirator.

  • The attack on the US embassy compound in Benghazi occurred on September 11, 2012.
  • Al-Bakoush was extradited to the US and arrived at a Virginia airfield on February 7, 2026.

The players

Zubayar Al-Bakoush

A 58-year-old man charged with murder and terrorism for his alleged role as a leader in the 2012 attack on the US embassy compound in Benghazi, Libya.

Chris Stevens

The US Ambassador to Libya who was killed in the 2012 Benghazi attack.

Tyrone Woods, Glen Doherty, Sean Smith

US security contractors and an IT officer who were killed in the 2012 Benghazi attack.

Moustafa al-Imam

A man convicted on Benghazi conspiracy charges in 2019 whose trial revealed evidence about Al-Bakoush's involvement.

Ahmed Salimfaraj Abukhatallah

A man sentenced to 28 years in prison in 2024 for his role in the Benghazi attack, who prosecutors said had an "undeniable connection" to Al-Bakoush.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The video shows him banging on a vehicle, messing with a vehicle. Moments after there is when you see [another suspect] Jamaica pouring the gas on it, clearly acting in concert, and then you see him outside of Villa B at 10:05, Zubayr Bakoush, with a weapon and acting in concert with the other attackers.”

— US Attorney Michael DiLorenzo

“The videos show 'the defendant's army … It shows that his army, his militia, his militia that operates outside the law, is the tip of the spear in this attack.'”

— US Attorney Michael DiLorenzo

What’s next

The judge in Al-Bakoush's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This new evidence directly tying Al-Bakoush to the Benghazi attack could be a significant development in the long-running investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the deaths of four Americans. It highlights the importance of gathering comprehensive evidence to ensure accountability for such attacks on US diplomatic facilities.