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The exterior of the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, following Tuesday's attack. Reuters Photo/Esam Al-Fetori

Refugees International is deeply saddened by yesterday’s attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, which resulted in the deaths of Ambassador Christopher Stevens, three American consular staff, and several Libyan security personnel. While many details about the incident remain unclear, it is our firm belief that those who executed this attack in no way represent the Libyan people and their aspirations for peace.

It is our hope that this tragedy will not interrupt the vital peacebuilding efforts now underway in Libya. In particular, we call on the U.S. government to continue the important work begun by Ambassador Stevens and his staff, who contributed significantly to Libya's rebuilding and reconciliation process. If anything, such efforts – carried out by foreign donors, humanitarian agencies, and Libyans themselves – must now be strengthened, so that all Libyans can enjoy the security and prosperity they deserve.