President Barack Obama has condemned the "outrageous attack" on a U.S. consulate in Libya's second largest city which took the lives of four Americans, including Ambassador Chris Stevens.
"Right now, the American people have the families of those we lost in our thoughts and prayers," Obama said in a statement. "They exemplified America's commitment to freedom, justice, and partnership with nations and people around the globe, and stand in stark contrast to those who callously took their lives."
Obama said he's directed his administration to provide "all necessary resources to support the security" of personnel in Libya, and to increase security at our diplomatic posts around the globe.
"While the United States rejects efforts to denigrate the religious beliefs of others, we must all unequivocally oppose the kind of senseless violence that took the lives of these public servants."
Obama added a "personal note," calling Stevens a "courageous and exemplary representative of the United States. Throughout the Libyan revolution, he selflessly served our country and the Libyan people at our mission in Benghazi. As Ambassador in Tripoli, he has supported Libya's transition to democracy. His legacy will endure wherever human beings reach for liberty and justice. I am profoundly grateful for his service to my Administration, and deeply saddened by this loss.
"The brave Americans we lost represent the extraordinary service and sacrifices that our civilians make every day around the globe. As we stand united with their families, let us now redouble our own efforts to carry their work forward."