The Libyan government on Sunday declared a three-day national mourning period after the country 's first suicide bombing since the fall of the Gadhafi regime more than two years ago . At least 13 people were killed in the attack on a checkpoint leading to the eastern gates of Libya 's second city , Benghazi , early Sunday , the government said . Most of those killed were soldiers and members of the security forces , the government said . At least two others were still missing in the aftermath of what has been described as a powerful blast . A security official told the state news agency LANA that a suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into the Barsis checkpoint -- about 50 kilometers ( 30 miles ) east of Benghazi -- killing and wounding security forces and civilians who were in the area . The security situation in Benghazi has been worsening over recent months with a noticeable uptick in bombings and assassinations that have mostly targeted members of the security forces . While no one has claimed responsibility for these attacks , many residents blame the violence on Islamist militants in the eastern region , and some of these groups have ties to al Qaeda . People in Benghazi and the eastern city of Derna , angered by the increasing bloodshed , have recently taken to the streets protesting against extremist groups . One group many have accused of being responsible for attacks on the security forces is Ansar al-Sharia , the same group the United States believes attacked its consulate in Benghazi last year , killing U.S . Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans . Ansar al-Sharia has denied involvement in the attack on the consulate and other acts of violence targeting security forces . Last month fierce fighting erupted in Benghazi between soldiers from the army 's special forces , who have been trying to secure the city , and members of Ansar al-Sharia . At least nine people were killed in the rare confrontation between security forces and militants . The weak central government has been struggling to secure the country , especially the city of Benghazi where militants have attacked diplomatic missions forcing western countries to shut down their consulates . The United States , the United Kingdom and other countries advise their nationals against traveling to Benghazi . Earlier this month , an American teacher in the city was shot dead while jogging . No one has claimed responsibility for his killing . As locals and security forces began confronting militants , analysts monitoring the violence trends in Benghazi have been concerned about an escalation in violence and shift in tactics used by these groups . `` This cowardly act is an attempt to obstruct the strenuous efforts made by members of the national army , with the Thunderbolt ( special ) forces at the forefront , to establish security and preserve the life of citizens in Benghazi , '' the government said in its statement . Widow of American teacher forgives attackers who killed her husband in Libya .
Three days of mourning to mark first suicide attack since Gadhafi regime 's fall . Most of the dead were soldiers and members of security forces , government says . No one has claimed responsibility ; residents have protested rising Islamist violence .