Hostilities first broke out early in the morning of Friday 16 May 2014 when Gen. Haftar 's forces assaulted the bases of certain Benghazi Islamist militia groups , including the one blamed for the 2012 assassination of US ambassador Christopher Stevens . Helicopters , jets and ground forces took part in the assault , killing at least 70 , and injuring at least 250 . Haftar has vowed to not stop until the extremists groups are purged . Shortly before the assault Haftar reportedly asked a close friend , " Am I committing suicide ? " The operation , codenamed " Operation Dignity " by Haftar , began when forces loyal to General Haftar attacked units of the February 17th Martyrs Brigade , the Libya Shield No. 1 Brigade ( also known as Deraa No. 1 Brigade ) , and Ansar al-Sharia . Fighting was largely confined to the south western Benghazi districts of Hawari and Sidi Ferej . In particular the fighting focused on the area between the south-western gate checkpoint and the cement factory ; an area controlled by Ansar al-Sharia . As part of the fighting helicopters were seen over Hawari . Fighting was also reported in the port area between marines and the Libya Shield No. 1 ( Deraa No. 1 ) Brigade
2012 assassination of US ambassador Christopher Stevens
2012 Benghazi attack
Battle of Benghazi (2014)