Sep 17 2012

Graham Urges Congressional Investigation into Benghazi Attack

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today released the following statement calling for a Congressional investigation into last week’s attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

“The Obama Administration’s insistence that the attack on our consulate in Benghazi, Libya resulted from a riot inspired by a film, rather than a planned and coordinated attack, defies common sense.  It is imperative that Congress conduct an investigation into this matter, as the two scenarios are vastly different in terms of scope and depth.  A planned and coordinated assault points loudly to a security lapse, and the problems associated with such a scenario are much deeper than a violent riot over a film.

“The tragic loss of Ambassador Stevens and three other brave Americans needs to be fully understood so that we will be prepared in the future for similar attacks.  It is my belief, as stated by the Libyan president, that this was a coordinated attack by al-Qaeda or like-minded groups, and it points to severe lapses of security in a region where likely attacks can be anticipated.  The bottom line is statements by the Obama Administration must be properly scrutinized, and that is the proper role of Congress.”

Graham also said he supports legislation introduced by Senators Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina) and Bob Corker (R-Tennessee) that would require investigations into the September 11-13, 2012 attacks on U.S. missions.

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