Revisiting the Benghazi Attack: Fact vs Fiction in '13 Hours'

The 2016 film '13 Hours' has often been criticized for its dramatized portrayal of the September 11, 2012, attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya. While the movie has captured the public's imagination, an independent filmmaker is working to provide a more truthful account. This article delves into the realities behind the intense gunfire depicted in the film.

My Perspective on 13 Hours: Mainly Fiction

While I haven't watched '13 Hours,' it is widely recognized as a work of dramatic fiction. The film has been criticized for its dramatized and sometimes inaccurate portrayal of events. As a professional in the SEO industry, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction when dealing with historical events.

The Villa Defence: Few or No Shots Fired

During the initial attack on the villa where the U.S. diplomatic staff was located, there is a lack of evidence that either the defenders or the CIA rescue team fired any shots. Many accounts suggest that the defenders were not heavily engaged in a firefight. This is contrary to the intense battle scenes depicted in the movie '13 Hours.'

The CIA Annex and the Short Exchange of Fire

When the defenders returned to the CIA annex, a brief exchange of gunfire did occur, but it appears to have been relatively short-lived and mostly blind firing. Outsiders engaged in shooting without a clear target, likely for a few minutes.

The Lull Period and the Mortar Shells

Following this brief exchange of fire, there was a significant lull in the fighting. After about seven hours, three mortar shells were fired in close succession, followed by a period of quiet. This lull suggests that the fighters did not engage in continuous intense gunfire but rather periods of active combat interspersed with quieter moments.

The Total Duration of Firefights

Considering all accounts, the total duration of the actual firefights has been estimated to be less than ten minutes. This finding contrasts sharply with the long and intense battle scenes portrayed in '13 Hours.'

Seeking the Truth

Despite the inaccuracies in '13 Hours,' there is hope for a more accurate representation of the events. Independent filmmakers are currently working on a more truthful account. This new film aims to provide a more authentic and factual portrayal of what occurred in Benghazi on that fateful day.

Conclusion

The portrayal of the Benghazi attack in '13 Hours' has been widely criticized for its dramatic and often erroneous depiction of events. Based on current evidence, the actual fighting was much less intense than what is shown in the film. A new independent film is expected to set the record straight and provide a more accurate and truthful narrative for the audience.