US: 15 high-risk diplomatic posts need upgrade

WASHINGTON (AP) -- State Department officials say 15 high-risk U.S. diplomatic facilities must be upgraded or replaced to prevent any Benghazi-like attack in the future.<br /> <br /> Diplomatic security chief Gregory Starr says problems include improper blast walls and insufficient setback from public streets.<br /> <br /> He and Bill Miller, the department's point-man for high-risk posts, are testifying before a Senate panel to defend a $2.2 billion request for embassy security funding in 2014.<br /> <br /> They cited some progress worldwide, including approval for a new Beirut embassy after 30 years of effort.<br /> <br /> Republican Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee questioned part of the department's response to last year's deadly attack in Libya.<br /> <br /> He challenged plans for a new security training center. And he expressed disappointment with the paid leave given to four employees faulted for wrongdoing on Benghazi.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/7/263563