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Today in History: Gunmen Take Hostages in 39-Hour D.C. Standoff

3/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 9, 1977, twelve gunmen from the Hanafi Movement seized three buildings in Washington, D.C., taking 149 hostages. The attack resulted in the death of a journalist and a police officer, with three others injured. After a tense 39-hour standoff, the gunmen surrendered, and all remaining hostages were released.

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Story summary

On March 9, 1977, twelve gunmen from the Hanafi Movement seized three buildings in Washington, D.C., taking 149 hostages. The attack resulted in the death of a journalist and a police officer, with three others injured. After a tense 39-hour standoff, the gunmen surrendered, and all remaining hostages were released.