Murder of American Diplomats in Libya a Horrific Tragedy

JINSA extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of Ambassador Chris Stevens, Foreign Service Information Officer Sean Smith, former Navy SEAL Glen Doherty, and another American whose name has yet to be released who were murdered in Libya yesterday. This horrific attack evokes grief, sorrow, rage, and disgust. A country that was beginning to show promising signs for a brighter future following putatively free and fair elections now finds itself staring into the depths of evil, hatred, and the most insidious kind of intolerance. The United States supported the revolution and put its people at risk to protect the Libyans from a brutal murderer. It is our hope and expectation that the Libyan Government takes concrete action against those responsible for the attack to deter similar incidents in the future.  It is the responsibility of our government to the families of our fallen diplomats to ensure that Tripoli takes all necessary measures.

By all accounts, Amb. Stevens loved Libya and it was with enthusiasm that he assumed the mantle of envoy to that country. It is a bitter irony that Amb. Stevens, an early champion of the Libyan revolution, was struck down by those for whose freedom he cared so deeply. In a short video introducing himself to the Libyan people, he states “I was thrilled to watch the Libyan people stand up and demand their rights.” We sincerely hope the Libyan people will stand up and demand justice for him.