
U.S. authorities have announced the arrest of Zubayr Al-Bakoush, who is accused of playing a key role in the 2012 attack on the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya. The assault resulted in the deaths of four Americans, including Ambassador Chris Stevens.
The arrest was confirmed Friday by the Department of Justice, the FBI, and federal prosecutors. Officials said Al-Bakoush is now in U.S. custody and faces multiple federal charges, including murder and terrorism-related offenses connected to the attack.
According to authorities, Al-Bakoush was captured overseas following a lengthy international investigation and transported to the Eastern District of Virginia, where he will stand trial. Details of the operation were not disclosed for security reasons.
Prosecutors noted that the case had remained sealed for years due to national security concerns. A newly unsealed indictment outlines charges related to the deaths of U.S. diplomatic and security personnel and an attempted murder of a surviving agent.
The Benghazi attack, which occurred on September 11, 2012, remains one of the deadliest assaults on a U.S. diplomatic mission and led to years of investigations and political debate. Officials say the arrest reflects continued efforts to pursue accountability, regardless of how much time has passed.
Al-Bakoush is expected to appear in federal court in Virginia next week. If convicted, he could face life in prison.