Death in Libya

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2012

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The death of the U.S. ambassador to Libya and three other Americans during an assault on the American consulate in Benghazi is a tragedy that never should have happened.

It is irrational, reckless and cruel for people upset over a video to attack diplomats representing the country where the video reportedly was made.

It is the ultimate irony that Ambassador John Christopher Stevens and three other Americans lost their lives in a country that the United States helped liberate from dictatorship earlier this year.

The attacks in Benghazi followed protests in Egypt, where protesters climbed a wall of the U.S. Embassy in Cairo Tuesday, entered the grounds and tried to burn an American flag. Protests continued outside the embassy Wednesday.

The violence and protests apparently were sparked by an amateur, anti-Muslim film made in the United States that surfaced on the Internet. Clips from the film appeared Saturday on a television station in Egypt and on the Internet.

Libyan officials have apologized for the assault and extended condolences to the United States and families of the victims. Washington must inquire why the Libyan government did not provide adequate protection for the diplomats. Hopefully, the United States is strengthening protection of U.S. embassies that may be vulnerable to attack.

Mr. Stevens, who spoke Arabic and French, wrote that he considered himself “fortunate to participate in this incredible period of change and hope in Libya.” He was active in meeting with Libyans from all walks of life and exploring Libyan culture.

Mr. Stevens is the first U.S. ambassador to be killed on duty since 1979. He and other diplomats who serve America around the world and who help other countries are true heroes and patriots.

There is no justification for violence that takes the life of such ambassadors of peace.