Benghazi CIA Annex: A Night of Heroic Defense

What really happened during the Benghazi attack? How did a small group of American security personnel defend against overwhelming odds?

In Mitchell Zuckoff's gripping book 13 Hours, you'll discover the harrowing true story of the Benghazi CIA Annex siege. This intense account takes you through the events of September 11, 2012, when a handful of brave Americans fought to protect their colleagues from a relentless assault.

Get ready to dive into a tale of courage, sacrifice, and survival as we explore the night that shook the world and changed lives forever.

The Night Benghazi's CIA Annex Came Under Siege

A City on the Edge

Benghazi's tumultuous history set the stage for the events that would unfold on September 11, 2012, at the Benghazi CIA Annex. This Libyan city, shaped by centuries of invasions and occupations, had long been a hotbed of conflict and unrest. From Ottoman rule to Italian colonization, Benghazi's people had endured severe repression and forced displacements, creating a volatile environment that would ultimately lead to the siege of the CIA facility.

Even after Libya gained independence, the city's troubles were far from over. Muammar al-Gaddafi's rise to power in 1969 only exacerbated regional imbalances, with Benghazi intentionally neglected due to its history of opposition. This neglect fueled resentment and created fertile ground for militant and radical factions to take root.

Warning Signs Ignored

In the months leading up to the attack, there were clear indicators that trouble was brewing in Benghazi. Attacks on Western embassies and personnel had become increasingly common. The U.S. diplomatic compound and vehicles used by British diplomats had been targeted, and a serious travel advisory had been issued just days before Ambassador Stevens' visit.

Even the local security forces were showing signs of strain. The 17 February Martyrs Brigade, responsible for compound security, had initiated a work stoppage to protest pay and job conditions. Ambassador Stevens himself had expressed concerns about the escalating threat of Islamic extremism and the inadequate safety measures in place.

Despite these red flags, it seems the severity of the situation wasn't fully appreciated. Intelligence indicating potential attacks wasn't given enough weight, even with the approaching anniversary of 9/11. The stage was set for a tragedy that would soon unfold.

The Initial Assault

When the attack on the U.S. Special Mission Compound began, it quickly became clear that the security measures in place were woefully inadequate. A large group of armed militants easily overpowered the few security officers present, breaching the compound's defenses and setting fire to buildings and vehicles.

The main residence and adjacent barracks were soon engulfed in flames, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation. In the midst of this chaos, Ambassador Stevens and computer specialist Sean Smith went missing, adding to the challenges faced by the security team.

A Desperate Search

As the compound burned, the security team launched a perilous search and rescue operation. Braving intense heat, toxic fumes, and ongoing gunfire, they combed through the flaming structures in search of Stevens and Smith.

The search was hampered by poor visibility and the continued presence of armed insurgents within the compound. Despite constant radio communication and the arrival of backup forces, the relentless assaults made it increasingly difficult to locate and evacuate the missing Americans.

Throughout this critical period, the security personnel demonstrated remarkable resolve. They used a variety of tactics and drew on their collective expertise to handle the escalating situation, showcasing their commitment to protecting American lives and fulfilling their duty.

Controversy at the CIA Annex

As the situation at the compound deteriorated, attention shifted to the nearby CIA Annex. Here, a team of former U.S. military personnel, now working for a clandestine organization, found themselves at the center of a tense standoff.

Initially, the Annex Security Team was hesitant to respond to the attack on the compound. This hesitation stemmed from conflicting orders from Bob, the head of the CIA Annex, who instructed the operators to stay put and rely on local militia assistance. This decision was met with skepticism and unease, particularly from team members like Tanto who felt an urgent need to act.

The delay in response led to heated debates among the team members. They felt a strong moral obligation to help their colleagues at the compound, but were constrained by the lack of clear directives from their superiors.

Taking Action

As tensions escalated and the situation at the compound grew increasingly dire, the special forces team's patience began to wear thin. Despite the lack of explicit orders, they ultimately decided that waiting was no longer an option. This internal conflict highlighted both the gravity of the situation and the team members' deep commitment to their duties.

Defending the Annex

When the militants turned their attention to the CIA Annex, the security team was ready. They coordinated their movements, took up defensive positions, and used night-vision equipment to monitor enemy movements. Their preparedness paid off when they successfully ambushed a group of attackers who had unwittingly entered their territory.

The Annex team showed remarkable resilience in the face of well-coordinated assaults involving heavy artillery. Even as the attackers escalated their bombardment with mortars, striking with alarming accuracy, the defenders held their ground.

The Cost of Courage

The battle at the Annex came at a heavy price. The area bore clear signs of multiple explosive assaults, reflecting the significant losses suffered. Brave individuals like Woods and Doherty lost their lives, while Geist and Ubben sustained serious injuries. Oz, in particular, demonstrated exceptional determination, fighting on despite severe wounds.

These sacrifices underscored the grave dangers faced by the defenders and the dire circumstances they bravely confronted.

The Final Evacuation

As the night wore on, the decision was finally made to evacuate the remaining Americans from the Annex. The team leader's order to "Consolidate now" signaled the start of a tense withdrawal operation. The group was acutely aware of the potential for ambushes and further attacks as they made their way out of the danger zone.

The evacuation was fraught with danger. As they moved towards safety, the Americans were conscious of advancing enemies and the possibility of another assault. There were fears that the local militia tasked with ensuring their safe passage might not withstand another attack. At one point, a suspicious vehicle appeared to be trailing the evacuees, heightening fears of a possible ambush. Despite these challenges, they ultimately reached the safety of the Annex.

Aftermath and Remembrance

The arrival at the airport marked a somber end to the night's events. The sight of their fallen comrades being transported past them left a deep impression on the survivors, a poignant reminder of the cost of their brave resistance.

In the days and weeks that followed, the bodies of the fallen were returned to the United States with full honors. Survivors like Mark "Oz" Geist underwent extensive recovery and rehabilitation, while also providing detailed accounts of the night's events to Congress.

The State Department recognized the responders' valor with plaques and medals, a heartfelt acknowledgment of their courageous actions. Friends and families of the deceased established funds and foundations to ensure their names and contributions would continue to make a difference.

As the group finally reached Tripoli, they received a warm welcome from embassy staff, marking a time of significant healing and reflection for all involved. The siege of the CIA Annex in Benghazi stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who defend American interests abroad, even in the face of overwhelming odds.