On 19 April, ISIS conducted a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) attack at a Libyan National Army (LNA) Tariq Bin Ziyad...
ISIS SVBIED attack at LNA checkpoint at Umm al-Aranib
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Results for "IED attack"
5 – 11 June: ISIS suspected of being involved in IED attack targeting police in Derna
On 3 June, ISIS is suspected of undertaking an attack on the al-Fuqaha gate. On 4 June, ISIS is suspected of being involved in an IED attack in Derna. On 8 June, BAM spokesperson stated that ISIS sleeper cells were observed in the Garabulli district east of Tripoli. On 10 June, a suspected ISIS member was arrested in the Shabia area of Sirte. On 9 June, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian suggested that ISIS was resurgent in the Fezzan.
23 May – 29 May: On 24 May VBIED attack in Benghazi kills at least six
On 24 May, a VBIED attack occurred in Benghazi killing at least six people and wounded 22 others. The motives and the perpetrators remain unknown. On 25 May, the commander of the LNA’s 21 Saiqa Brigade claimed to have survived an assassination attempt in Benghazi. On 28 May, the LNA Air force claim to have struck multiple “Chadian militias” in southern Libya.
28 Mar – 3 Apr: ISIS SVBIED attack on the southern entrance to Ajdabiya while the PC launch new anti-ISIS military operation
On 29 March, ISIS undertook a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) attack on the southern entrance to Ajdabiya killing 5 people, wounding 6 and damaging at least 6 vehicles. On 2 April, Presidential Council (PC) spokesperson Mohammed al-Sallack announced the launch of a new military operation dubbed Asifat al-Wattan (The Nation’s Storm) with the aim of ending ISIS’s militant presence in Libya.
21 – 27 Feb: ISIS undertake a VBIED attack on an LNA checkpoint near Waddan
On 21 February, at 9:15 in the morning, an ISIS Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) drove into the LNA 127 infantry battalion at a checkpoint near Waddan in the Jufra district. The attack killed three LNA fighters and wounding two more.
7 Feb – 13 Feb: VBIED attack by suspected ISIS fighter on LNA checkpoint east of Sidra
On 10 February, three LNA officers belonging to the 165th Brigade were injured in a VBIED attack on their position at the 90km checkpoint, 60 km east of Sidra. The driver of the vehicle is suspected of being an ISIS fighter.
IED attack on the Zagout-Sidra oil pipeline
On 26 December, unknown attackers caused an explosion on the Zagout-Sidra oil pipeline. The explosion occurred on the pipeline 256km south east of Sidra and 25km north of Marada. The attackers are reported to have arrived at the site in two cars and planted explosives on the pipeline. Muftah Magariaf, the head of the Libyan […]
LNA airstrikes carried out near Harouj after recent ISIS attacks in the area
On 2 August, the Libyan National Army is reported to have undertaken airstrikes within the area of the Harouj Mountains following ISIS actvity in...
ISIS VBIED suicide attack targets and kills Security Head in Sebha
On 6 June, ISIS claimed a suicide vehicle borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) attack targeting a Libyan National Army (LNA) checkpoint at...
15-22 August: Terror suspects tried over Corinthia attack in 2015
Two individuals were tried on terror charges in Tripoli after alleged involvement in a series of attacks in the capital, including the assault on the Corinthia Hotel in January 2015. The defendants have not been named and it is unclear how they came to be detained. BM forces published trailers of upcoming ‘confessions’ by Libyan ISIS fighters captured during fighting between BM and ISIS.
ISIS mastermind of 2018 Tripoli attacks arrested in Tajoura
On 24 August, Government of National Unity (GNU) Prime Minister Abdul Hameed Dabaiba announced that a security operation carried out by the Special...
ISIS reportedly releases information about attacks in 2022
On 8 January, it was reported that ISIS had published information about the results of its global operations in 2022 through one of its media...
Saleh accuses Menfi of instigating protestor attacks on HoR
On 6 July, House of Representatives (HoR) Speaker Aqeela Saleh accused Head of the Presidential Council (PC), Muhammed al-Menfi, and his brother,...
LNA repels two suspected ISIS attacks in southern Libya
On 7 June, the Libyan National Army’s (LNA) 634 Infantry Brigade issued a statement reporting that it had repelled two armed attacks from suspected...
ISIS attack on LNA camp in Umm al-Aranib
On 18 January, ISIS claimed responsibility for an IED attack on an LNA camp in Umm al-Aranib, south of Sebha, which killed one person and injured...
Suspected ISIS attack on LNA forces in Zillah
On 22 August, the Libyan National Army (LNA) aligned 128 Brigade was attacked by a suicide bomber identified as a Sudanese national at the Zillah...
ISIS claim responsibility for another attack in south
On 14 June, ISIS claimed responsibility for an ambush and improvised explosive devise (IED) attack that killed the commander of an Libyan National...
7 –13 October: GNA warns of LNA attacks in preparation
On 8 October, the GNA Defence Minister, al-Namroush, warned that LNA Commander Haftar was preparing to launch an attack in the Bani Walid, Ghariyan and Tarhouna regions. Claims by the LNA have also emerged that the GNA is planning to launch an attack on the western oil fields and facilities of Sharara and al-Feel.
1 July – 7 July: Attack on Watiya airbase
On 5 July, Watiya airbase was attacked, but no one has claimed responsibility. Over the last week, both the GNA and LNA forces have maintained their positions in Sirte, but there has been little active fighting. On 2 July, the GNA MoI Bashaagha announced that the new INTERPOL office in Tripoli had been opened.
17 June – 23 June: Attack by Libyan claimed to be terrorist act
On 20 June, Libyan national Saadallah was arrested after stabbing multiple people in a park in Reading. He was initially arrested on suspicion of murder, but he has now been rearrested under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
3 June – 9 June: Two potential ISIS attacks in Southern Libya
On 3 June, a man identified as a GECOL employee was killed by masked men in Taraghin in southern Libya. On 6 June, an unidentified armed group launched an attack on the LNA held Triangle Checkpoint in Sebha. Both attacks were potentially conducted by ISIS.
27 May – 2 June: ISIS claims new attacks in southern Libya
On 29 May, ISIS released its al-Naba issue no 236 in which they claimed responsibility for a series of attacks in southern Libya.
20 May – 26 May: ISIS claims four attacks in Libya in May
On 21 May, ISIS’s al-Naba issue no. 235 claimed responsibility for three attacks in Libya. On 25 May, ISIS claimed responsibility for a VBIED attack in Taraghin. On 24 May, LNA stated that they had arrested suspected Syrian ISIS leader, Muhamad al-Ruwaidani aka al-Baidani in Tripoli.
1 – 7 April: Highest number of aerial attacks since fighting broke out in April 2019
The first week of April has seen the highest number of aerial attacks since the LNA launched its assault on Tripoli in April 2019. Relatively senior anti-LNA field commanders have been killed. On 2 April, GNA Prime Minister al-Serraj issued an official statement calling for a reshuffle at the CBL. On 5 April, 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported in Libya.
5 – 11 February: Potential Jihadi Attack in Tripoli
On 10 February, a bombing targeted the Ascending General School in the Abu Issa area of Tripoli. It is unclear who carried out the attack.
AFRICOM launch 4 aerial attacks in 10 days targeting ISIS in southern Libya
On 24, 27 and 29 September, AFRICOM conducted multiple airstrikes in southern Libya targeting ISIS and claimed to have killed 35 ISIS fighters. On 30 September, the LNA Khalid Ibn al-Walid Battalion clashed with ISIS fighters between Qatroun and Um al-Aranib in southern Libya.
29 May – 4 June: ISIS attacks LNA checkpoint in Fuqaha area
On 27 May, Misrata security forces undertook a raid in Abu Grein, arresting alleged ISIS supporter Faris Belhaj. On 28 May, the Misratan Central Counter-Terrorism Force arrested seven alleged ISIS members in Abu Grein. On 28 May, ISIS was observed south of Sirte. On 30 May, ISIS published a second set of “Diary of a Mujahedeen” photos. On 3 June, ISIS claimed to have attacked the LNA) Checkpoint 400 in the Fuqaha area. On 3 June, ISIS claimed responsibility for the two vehicle-borne IEDs attacks in Derna conducted on 2 June.
15 May – 21 May: ISIS attacks a LNA checkpoint near Zilla
On 20 May, the SPF claimed to have intercepted communications of ISIS fighters planning to undertake a assault on Sirte. On 18 May, ISIS fighters attacked a LNA checkpoint near Zilla. On 17 May, ISIS released its al-Naba newsletter no. 182, which featured a report on the group’s raid on Ghadduwa. On 13 May, ISIS published photos of the group’s members daily lives in the Fezzan.
20 March – 26 March: US State Department warned of an imminent attack in Tripoli
On 22 March, the US State Department warned of an imminent attack on a vital national institution in Tripoli on 23 March. On 25 March, the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) reviewed its flight ban over Libyan airspace and is set to allow US carriers to fly over the country above 30,000 feet. On 20 March, UN Envoy to Libya Ghassan Salame announced the details of the long-delayed National Conference.
19 December – 25 December: ISIS attack foreign ministry in Tripoli
On 25 December, four ISIS fighters undertook a suicide attack on Libya’s foreign ministry in Tripoli, killing three people and wounding at least 21 more.
19 September – 25 September: Suspected al-Qaeda members attack security official in Sebha
On 21 September, suspected Al-Qaeda members launched an attack using an RPG on a senior security official in Sebha.
5 September – 11 September: ISIS attack NOC HQ in Tripoli
On 10 September, three ISIS fighters raided Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) offices in central Tripoli, leaving at least two staff members dead and another 10 injured. The following day ISIS’s media wing, Nashir, claimed responsibility for the attack.
25 July – 31 July: Additional details of ISIS attack on Uqaylah police station emerge
On 28 July, several vehicles belonging to ISIS fighters were observed south of Uqaylah moving to the 103 line towards the Kufra and Jalu region. Additional details have emerged surround ISIS’s attack on the police station in Uqaylah in Eastern Libya on July 24.
23 May – 29 May: ISIS claim responsibility for attacks in Oil Crescent
On 23 May, ISIS claimed responsibility for the two attacks that occurred in the Oil Crescent on May 22 – a suicide vehicle-borne improved explosive device (SVBIED) targeted the Libyan National Army (LNA) 152 Brigade Gate 60, south east of Ajdabiya, while gunmen attacked an LNA checkpoint north of Awjilah kidnapping two guards.
2 May – 8 May: ISIS fighters attack HNEC in Tripoli and LNA checkpoints in the Oil Crescent
On 2 May, Islamic State fighters attacked the HNEC building in the Ghout al-Shaal area of Tripoli. As many as 16 people were killed and more than 19 were injured. On 5 May, ISIS claimed its fighters undertook two attacks on the LNA in the Wahat province in late April. On 8 May, ISIS undertook an SVBIED attack on an LNA controlled checkpoint near Bin Jawwad 70 km from Ras Lanuf, killing two and injuring four.
18 Apr – 24 Apr: LNA CSO motorcade attacked by alleged “terrorist sleeper cells”
On 18 April, a motorcade with Libyan National Army (LNA) Military Governor and LNA chief of Staff Abdulrazzaq al-Nadhouri was attacked by alleged “terrorist sleeper cells” using a VBIED as it moved through Sidi Khalifa, north of Benghazi. On 22 April, the Derna Mujahedeen Shura Council (DMSC), which is currently in the control of the city of Derna, released a conciliatory statement calling for an end to the conflict between itself and the LNA.
4 Apr – 10 Apr: LNA arrest ISIS member preparing attack on Zueitina
On 7 April, local Libyan National Army (LNA) affiliated security apprehended a suspected ISIS member who was allegedly preparing to conduct an attack against LNA forces in the coastal town of Zueitina.
7 – 13 Mar: ISIS members killed in Derna and claim attack near Ajdabiya
On 11 March, the LNA spokesperson announced that its Sirte Operations Room had killed three ISIS leaders fleeing Derna. On 8 March, a SVBIED attacked a LNA checkpoint south east of Ajdabiya. Two Sudanese civilians and one LNA fighter were reportedly wounded.
7 Feb – 13 Feb: al-Werfalli hands himself in while the LNA and AIOR thwart VBIEDs
On 7 February, Mahmoud al-Werfalli, a LNA commander wanted on charges of war crimes by the ICC, handed himself into the LNA for questioning. On 11 February, the LNA affiliated AIOR apprehended a group allegedly plotting to conduct car bombs attacks in Sabratha. On 6 February, the LNA said it had arrested an extremist cell allegedly preparing VBIEDs in the Oil Crescent.
4-10 October: ISIS attack on Misratan court kills five, ISIS cell discovered in Ruwaisat area
An ISIS suicide bomb attack which targeted a Misratan court complex in the centre of the city on 4 October, killed four people and wounded several more after ISIS fighters opened fire on the complex and one attacked detonated a suicide belt. Local support of security forces in clamping down against militia members connected with terrorist organizations is rising. It is reported that an ISIS cell was arrested and its armory, including high power explosives, was found in the Ruwaisat area.
27 Sept – 4 Oct: AG Says Zahawi and Zawahiri Ordered Benghazi Attack
On 28 September, the Attorney General’s Office said that the storming of the US Special Mission in Benghazi on 11 September 2012 was carried out by Ansar al-Sharia, under direct orders from AQ leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. On 2 October, the trial of Ahmed Abu Khatallah, who is accused of orchestrating the Benghazi attack, began in the US.
20-26 Sept: AS ‘Confession’ Video Sparks Retaliation Attacks
On 17 September, the LNA broadcast the televised ‘confessions’ of Ibrahim Muftah Abu Nuwwara, an imprisoned Ansar al-Sharia fighter from Ajdabiya, in which he confessed to ordering assassinations in Ajdabiya. This sparked reprisals with the houses of those involved, namely the Jadhran and Abu Nuwwara families, being burned down.
August 22-29: ISIS Beheads 11 in attack near Jufra
On 23 August, Islamic State (ISIS) fighters attacked the Libyan National Army (LNA)-controlled al-Fugaha checkpoint in Jufra. Eleven victims were beheaded. On 27 August, Amaq released a new video showing two abductees and featuring several ISIS fighters guarding a checkpoint on a road near Jufra, south of Sirte.
August 23: ISIS beheads 11 in attack on al-Fogha checkpoint near Jufra
Islamic State (ISIS) militants attacked the Libyan National Army (LNA)-controlled al-Fogha checkpoint near Jufra this morning, killing at least nine soldiers and two civilians. According to LNA spokesman Ahmed Mismari, the eleven victims were beheaded and many others were left injured. The IS Amaq news agency released a statement this morning claiming the incident and […]
July 18-25: BM Forces Prepare for Imminent ISIS Attack On Sirte
Misratan-led Bunyan Marsus (BM) forces have raised the level of security readiness in anticipation of an impending Islamic State (ISIS) attack on Sirte from the south and the east. GNA spokesman Mohammed al-Ghosri denied rumours that BM requested military support from the LNA and posited that the LNA’s position in Jufra may actually facilitate the presence and movement of ISIS south of Sirte.
June 21-27: BM Forces Capture ISIS fighter; Suicide attack at Sidra gate checkpoint
Forces belonging to the GNA-aligned BM forces allegedly captured an ISIS fighter, during an operation to retrieve hijacked fuel trucks south of Sirte. Lone-wolf suicide attack at the LNA controlled Sidra gate checkpoint, kills the assailant and one other.
17-27 May: BDB fighter chants ISIS songs in Brak Attack
Footage found on the phone of a Palestinian man captured by the LNA, who was reportedly amongst BDB forces, depicts the Palestinian and his companions chanting an ISIS song as well as the execution of LNA soldiers.
17-27 May: GNA –aligned forces attack Brak al-Shatti
On 18 May, forces affiliated with the GNA conducted an attack on Brak al-Shatti airbase controlled by LNA in south-west Libya, leaving 74 LNA fighters dead and ending the ‘ceasefire’ between the opposing forces. The GNA is in disarray following the attack with differing statements and a pending investigation in the incident.
ISIS Fighters Attack Water Pipe in Southern Libya
ISIS fighters attacked the main control station of the Man Made River pipe system southern Libya, however the LNA says the fighters have been driven away and that they now have control of the station. In Khoms, the mayor says last month’s beheading was not carried out by ISIS.
Suicide Attacks in Benghazi, BDB Camp Stormed in Misrata
BRSC and ISIS suicide bombers attacked LNA fighters in Benghazi last week, even as gains were made in Ganfuda, and a video was found showing links between the Ansar al-Sharia groups in Libya and Tunisia. In Misrata, BM forces attacked BDB forces who had retreated to a camp in the city while LNA forces killed a high profile BDB commander during airstrikes in Jufra.
LNA Defeats Counter Attack, Extends Territorial Control
The LNA defeated a counter-attack on the oil crescent launched from Jufra by allied forces including Jadhran loyalists, BDB fighters and some GNA forces. The attacking convoy was routed and the LNA even extended its control south of Jufra, all the way to Brak al-Shati. In Tripoli, tensions are high as anti-GNA Misratan forces mobilize to support the anti-GNA Islamist coalition, while protests took place after a video of militiamen raping a woman was released.
12 June – 18 June: LNA and ISIS clash over two days near Harouj
On 17 June, LNA forces claimed they observed ISIS elements between Sirte and Saddada. On 12, 14 and 15 June, clashes between LNA and ISIS fighters occurred in the Harouj mountains. On 14 June, ISIS released an Amaq report claiming to have killed fifty LNA fighters. On 15 June, ISIS claimed IED attack targeting LNA forces near Tmassah. On 11 June, security forces stopped two migrants on suspicion of being members of ISIS. On 8 June, the Algerian army fired upon a suspected ISIS armed group as they approached the boarder.
Action — 29 August 2016
In Sirte, fighting halted last week but resumed fiercely on 27 August. The break in the fighting was reportedly to allow wives and children of ISIS fighters to exit the conflict zone towards the southwest, though there is no evidence confirming this actually took place. It is likely that key ISIS commanders will have taken advantage of this lull in fighting to escape to the south, meaning the destruction of ISIS in Sirte will not mean the eradication of ISIS in Libya… On 28 August, Bunyan Marsus (BM) fighters aligned with the Government of National Accord (GNA) closed in on ISIS-held districts 1 and 3 of Sirte. At least 35 were killed and more than 180 injured as a result of fierce fighting and reportedly 14 attempted SVBIED attacks by ISIS.
Archive Guide
How to use our archiveThe Libya Security Monitor (LSM) has an archive covering the most significant security incidents since June 2014. Our updates...
Publications
PublicationsTerrorist and Armed Groups in the Fezzan-Sahel Region: Recruitment and Communication Tactics January 2021 In Terrorist and Armed Groups...
The Decline of ISIS in Libya and the Levant is a Concern for Tunisia
The Decline of ISIS in Libya and the Levant is a Concern for Tunisia
In an article for the Middle East Eye, Rhiannon Smith and Lachlan Wilson discuss how the military gains against ISIS first in Libya then in the Levant could have a destabilising impact on Tunisia as the thousands of Tunisians fighting overseas for IS begin to return home and look to establish a new IS vanguard in North Africa. This could result in an increased ISIS presence in Tunisia itself or a regrouping of IS cells with Tunisian support in Libya’s deserts and potential hotspots such as Sabratha.
Gains in Ganfuda but Several LNA Fighters Killed
LNA forces are making gradual gains against jihadi fighters in Ganfuda but 11 LNA fighters were killed in one day last week during intense fighting. A vessel travelling from Misrata to Benghazi loaded with weapons and personnel was intercepted as Misratan authorities begin to crack down on hardliners in the city.
Action — 22 August 2016
The Bunyan Marsus coalition continued its steady advance deep into the center of Sirte, taking major residential areas throughout the week with the help of US airstrikes. ISIS militants still fighting in these areas continue to show fierce resistance using snipers, mortars and SVBIEDs, but the gains made by Bunyan Marsus indicate that the entirety of Sirte may be liberated within the next two weeks.
Action — 20 June 2016
This week witnessed the slowing momentum of the Government of National Accord’s (GNA) anti–ISIS operation in Sirte, as fierce ISIS counterattacks stalled the operation’s advance. This development is chiefly attributed to two factors: 1) ISIS is beginning to push back on the Bunyan Marsus advance inside Sirte, successfully and repeatedly hitting GNA forces behind their own front lines, and 2) the ‘defection’ of the hardline Islamist factions (e.g. Benghazi Defense Brigade) and other associated militias.
Action — 13 June 2016
GNA-aligned forces from Misrata managed to take full control of Sirte port’s and eastern coastline in Sawawa on 10 June. Libyan navy vessels blockaded the port as GNA forces advanced from the southeast, aided by airstrikes throughout last week. ISIS is currently hemmed into 20 square kilometers at Sirte’s center. Further, ISIS has lost control of all its coastal territory and the port will likely be used as a key transport route for GNA forces until ISIS is eliminated.
Action — 20 April 2016
ISIS attacked the ‘28 May’ militia near Sadada on 13 April, beheading militia leaders, looting large amounts of munitions, and destroying the remaining armaments that could not be transported from the camp. Some sources report that the ISIS militants who conducted the operation did so without direction from ISIS senior command in Sirte, and that […]
Action — 14 April 2016
Heavy fighting between ISIS and the Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG) in Garrah Al Haddad, an area between Bin Jawwad and Sidra, took place on 3 April. One PFG member was killed in the battle. That same day, ISIS issued a statement saying it had manged to thwart the advance and push the PFG eastward from […]
LNA launches campaign against FACT targets in southern Libya following Chadian airstrikes
On 22 August, Libyan National Army (LNA) spokesman Ahmed al-Mismari confirmed Chadian airstrikes on the Front pour l’Alternance et la Concorde au...
FACT accuses Chadian forces of airstrikes against its base in Libya as LNA announces plan to secure borders
On 18 August, the Front pour l’Alternance et la Concorde au Tchad (FACT) published a statement in which it claimed that the Chadian army had carried...
Violent protests erupt at Khoms port despite GNU denying reports of Turkish naval base lease
On 15 August, media outlets and social media posts reported that Turkey had leased the port of Khoms for 99 years and that the Turkish Armed Forces...
Wagner allegedly targeted in drone strikes on Khadim base as GNU, LNA deny responsibility
On 29 June, facilities of the Wagner mercenaries at al-Khadim Air Force Base in the Kharouba area south of al-Marj were reportedly attacked by at...
GNU praises ‘precision strikes’ on criminal targets in Zawiyya amid condemnation
On 25 May, the Government of National Unity (GNU) Ministry of Defence (MoD) claimed responsibility for several drone strikes which took place...
33 former IS members found guilty of crimes in Sabratha, 17 sentenced to death
On 19 December, the Attorney General issued a statement declaring the end of the Tripoli Criminal Court’s trial of 33 individuals accused of being...
ISIS in Libya Propaganda
ISIS in Libya Propaganda (2014-2016)A selection of materials published by ISIS wilayat in Libya, or relating to ISIS wilayat in Libya, from May 2014...
3 – 10 March: Libya’s HOR endorses Dabaiba’s Government of National Unity
On 4 March, the Tripoli headquarters of the Administrative Control Authority was attacked by an armed group. On 10 March, the HoR passed a vote of confidence in the cabinet presented by Prime Minister designate, Abdul Hameed Dabaiba.
16 – 23 February: alleged ISIS threat on HoR gathering in Sabratha
On 14 February, a state of alert was issued following reports that ISIS was planning a Vehicle Borne IED (VBIED) attack in Sabratha.
16 – 23 February: alleged assassination attempt on the GNA Minister of Interior Fathi Bashaagha
Violence occurred at celebrations to mark the 17 February 2011 uprisings in Sebha and Sirte. On 16 February, during patrols near Ghadduwah a mass grave was uncovered of individuals believed to have been killed by ISIS. On 17 February, the LNA 166 Brigade reportedly killed a member of the Sirte Criminal Investigations Department. On 21 February, there was an alleged assassination attempt on GNA MoI Fathi Bashaagha.
9-15 December: Manchester bomber alleged to have received training from Libyan militias
On 8 December, the Guardian reported that the Manchester Arena bomber, Salman Abedi, may have trained and fought with Islamist militias in Libya during the 2011 revolution.
4 – 10 November: Several passengers from Benghazi arrested at Tripoli’s Mitiga airport
On 4 November, LNA Commander Haftar reportedly launched an operation in Benghazi to expand joint security cooperation. Also, on 4 November, clashes erupted in Tarhouna. On 5 November, the military spokesman of the GNA, Dara, claimed the presence of Russian Wagner mercenaries in Sirte. The same day, it was reported that Turkish troops would remain in Libya for as long as the GNA wishes. On 6 November, several citizens arriving at Tripoli’s Mitiga airport from Benina Airport in Benghazi were arrested on charges of taking part in the 2019 attack on Tripoli.
14 –20 October: ISIS suspects arrested in Khoms and Tripoli
On 18 October, the GNA Counter-Terrorism Force Commander, al-Zein, announced that four people had been arrested for connections to a terrorism group. On 14 October, it was reported that an ISIS leader being held in Qarnadah prison had died.
8-14 July: Egypt announces military drill
On 9 July, the Egyptian military said it had carried out a large-scale military drill near the Libyan border called ‘Hasm 2020.’ On 13 July, the Turkish Foreign Minister said that military preparations had been made to seize Sirte and Jufra airbase if the LNA did not withdraw from both locations. On 10 July, Aqeela Saleh met with the acting UN Envoy to discuss finding an inclusive political solution to the Libyan crisis. On 8 July, Russian Foreign Minister said Russia was working with Turkey on an immediate ceasefire agreement in Libya.
8 – 14 April: GNA captures Sabratha
On 13 April, armed groups aligned to the GNA claimed to have captured pro-LNA towns, including Sabratha. The same day, reports emerged on social media claiming that the GNA has been attempting to bribe the city of Bani Walid. On 12 April, the LNA undertook an assault on the Abu Grein axis. In a counter-attack on the same locations, all territory was re-captured. On 6 April, an armed group stormed the MMRA station at al-Shuwayrif and shut off the pipeline, effectively cutting off the water supply to Tripoli, Bani Walid, Tarhouna and Misrata.
11 – 17 March: Build-up of forces on the Abu Grein frontline
Throughout the last week, there appears to have been a build-up of forces on the Abu Grein frontline, south of Misrata. On 8 March, the Misratan frontline field commander Arfidah was killed. On 10 March, a member of the Nawasi Brigade was killed, possibly a retribution for the killing of Arfidah. On 10 January, the GNA’s Western Military Region Commander, Juwaili, reportedly attempted to create a military camp in the Nafousa Mountains.
4 March – 10 March: Alleged ISIS member arrested
On 29 February a Sudanese doctor was arrested in Libya’s South on suspicion of being affiliated with ISIS and planning to undertake a terrorist attack. He is currently being processed by security forces, who suspect he has knowledge of other ISIS cells in the South.
29 January – 4 February 2020: LNA claims to have arrested former ISIS media official
On 26-27 January, an unidentified drone flew over Sebha through to Murzuq suspected to be pursuing ISIS-Libya members. On 27 January, the LNA’s 173 Infantry Brigade claimed ISIS fighters had fired on the LNA’s Joint Security Room of Wadi Otbah. On 30 January, the head of the media office of the LNA General Administration of the Criminal Investigation of the Army, claimed to have arrested an alleged former ISIS media official.
29 January – 4 February 2020: Egyptian court sentences Hisham al-Ashmawy to death
On 1 February, an Egyptian court sentenced former Egyptian special forces officer and alleged Islamist militant, Hisham al-Ashmawy, to death.
1 – 7 January 2020: Haftar declares full mobilisation to defend Libya from Turkey
On 3 January, Haftar declared a state of full mobilisation to defend Libya from Turkey. On 4 January, the HoR held an emergency meeting and asked the international community to withdraw its recognition of the GNA. On 4 January, the LNA launched a drone strike targeting a military academy camp in Tripoli and killing 30 people. On 6 January, the LNA launched an assault on Sirte, resulting in the withdrawal of local anti-LNA forces and GNA-aligned Misratan forces.
18 – 31 December 2019: UNHCR renewed its call for protecting civilians in Libya as international involvement increases
On 17 December, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs visited Libya and met with Serraj and Haftar. On 21 December, a senior US State Department official said that the US is “very concerned” about the intensification of the conflict in Libya. On 23 December, the EU issued a statement reiterating its calls on all Libyan parties to cease all military actions and resume the political dialogue. On 24 December, a high-profile meeting gathered together representatives from the Russian and Turkish foreign ministries. On 25 December, Turkish President Erdogan paid a surprise visit to Tunisia and met with Tunisian President Saied. On 28 December, Italian Prime Minister Conte warned that Russia and Turkey, and not Europe, are setting the agenda in Libya’s conflict. On 29 December, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis said that Greece wants to be included in the UN-sponsored Berlin conference on the Libya conflict. On 29 December UN Envoy to Libya, Salamé, called for greater civilian protection following several incidents in western Libya.
4 December – 10 December 2019: NOC declared force majeure on Mellitah port
On 9 December, the NOC declared force majeure on crude loadings from Mellitah port. On 7 December, a LNA MiG23 fighter jet crashed in Zawiyya. On 4 December, an unidentified armed group undertook two raids on the GNA’s Ministry of Finance in Tripoli.
13 November – 19 November: LNA intensifies push on southern Tripoli
On 12 November, the LNA intensified its push into the southern Tripoli moving on Khalla, the Swehli crossroads and Naher fronts.
18 – 24 September: US AFRICOM launches airstrikes against ISIS near Murzuq
On 19 and 24 September, US AFRICOM launched aerial attacks targeting alleged ISIS members located near Murzuq. Statements from AFRICOM indicated that they had killed eight ISIS fighters and eleven ISIS fighters respectively.
21 – 27 August: LNA’s plan to retake Ghariyan “is imminent”
On 21 August, anti-LNA forces made an advance into al-Asabea. On 25 August, heavy clashes occurred between LNA and anti-LNA forces 45 km southeast of Ghariyan and Ghout al-Reeh. On 26 August, the LNA claimed control of three villages south of Ghariyan.
10 July – 16 July: ISIS release eulogy for its media officer in Libya
On 11 July, ISIS released its al-Naba newsletter no 190, which featured a eulogy for ISIS Libya’s media officer. On 9 July, the Shahat CID arrested a suspected ISIS member, Ayoub Salah Abdul Aziz al-Alsoinai. On 9 July, the commander of the PFG denied reports that there was an attack by ISIS at the gate of Zilla oilfield.
3 July – 9 July: ISIS in Libya release video “And the Best Outcome Is for the Righteous”
On 6 July, ISIS Libya released a video renewing their pledge of allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. On 4 July, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he was “worried” that jihadist fighters were travelling to Libya from Syria. On the same day, EUROPOL warned that Islamist extremist are attempting to get to Libya following the collapse of ISIS in the Levant. On 4 July, security forces in Sirte allegedly arrested a suspected ISIS member.
3 July – 9 July: LNA announce ‘second wave’ mobilisation to take Tripoli
On 2 July, an airstrike killed at least 53 people and injured 130 more after striking a detention centre in the Tajoura suburb of Tripoli. On 6 July, the LNA announce a ‘second wave’ mobilisation to take Tripoli. On 7 July, the LNA conducted additional aerial attacks on Mitiga airport. On 7 July, GNA-affiliated forces tried to fully take Qasr Ben Ghashir and the area surrounding the Tripoli International Airport from LNA forces. On 8 July, the LNA elevated Major Mahmoud al-Werfalli to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
29 May – 4 June: Hisham al-Ashmawy handed over to Egyptian authorities
On 28 May, the LNA transferred former Egyptian Special Forces officer turned Egyptian jihadist, Hisham al-Ashmawy, over to Egyptian authorities. On 30 May, alleged member of the Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries Abdel Salam Abou Rzaiza was killed in southern Tripoli. On 30 May, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated near the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) headquarters in Derna, without any casualties reported. On 2 June, two vehicle-borne IEDs targeting the LNA’s Awilat al-Dam and Omar al-Mukhtar Operations Room headquarters left as many as 18 people injured.
29 May – 4 June: WHO states 607 people have been killed in Tripoli since 4 April
On 3 June, the WHO stated that 607 people have been killed in Tripoli since 4 April. On 3 June, Fayez al-Serraj claimed forces aligned to the GNA had made advances on all fronts against the LNA. On 2 June, the spokesman for the LNA claimed the LNA had “thwarted all counter-attack attempts carried out by the so-called GNA militias.” On 1 June, the GNA’s Western Military Region spokesperson stated that its forces were undertaking a new tactic. On 1 June, the head of the GNA’s Naval Forces dismissed the suggestion that the western maritime area was a military zone.
22 May – 28 May: Haftar meets with Macron
On 22 May, the head of the LNA Khalifa Haftar met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. On 23 May, the head of the GNA, Fayez al-Serraj, met with Algerian interim President, Abdelkader Bensalah, in Algiers. On 22 May, Serraj held a meeting with Tunisian President, Beji Caid Essebsi, to discuss the current crisis in Libya.
21 November – 27 November: ISIS launch an assault on the town of Tazirbu
On 23 November, ISIS launched an assault on the town of Tazirbu, northwest of Kufra, leaving at least 8 dead, 11 wounded and 17 kidnapped. On 24 November, RADA arrested a suspected ISIS leader in the city of Bani Walid.
3 October – 9 October: Egyptian jihadist Hisham al-Ashmawy captured in Derna
On 8 October, the LNA captured former Egyptian Special Forces officer turned jihadist, Hisham al-Ashmawy, in the al-Maghar neighborhood of Derma. Al-Ashmawy was captured with a suicide vest on, which he had failed to detonate.
26 September – 2 October: Foreign aircraft launches airstrike near Ubari
On 26 September, an unidentified foreign aircraft launched an airstrike overnight in the vicinity of Hay al-Baladya, near Ubari. It is unclear who the specific targets were. No group has claimed responsibility. On 28 September, the US and the UK signed an agreement with DCA Mine Action to continue supporting demining projects near Sirte.
15 August – 21 August: LNA mobilized forces to Oil Crescent and declare state of emergency
On 15 August, the LNA mobilized its forces to the Oil Crescent and declared a state of emergency in the region following reports of Ibrahim Jadhran allied militias traversing to the Wadi Zamzam area.
1 August – 7 August: Clashes between militia groups throughout Tripoli
On 1 August, the Special Deterrence Force (Rada) killed a man thought to be from the al-Burga militia in the Tajoura area of Tripoli. On 2 August, forces under Ghneiwa al-Kikli captured a clothes and textile factory in the Al-Hadba al-Badry area of Tripoli. On 31 July and 1 August, a series of clashes occurred between the Surman CID and the al-Nasr militia.
25 July – 31 July: Airstrikes targeting Al-Qaeda occur near Ubari
On 25 July, airstrikes are reported to have occurred targeting a house in the Sharib area near Ubari in Southern Libya, containing individuals thought to be affiliated with al-Qaeda.
4 July – 10 July: ISIS eastern branch, Wilayat Barqah, release a new video
On 4 July, ISIS branch in eastern Libya, known as Wilayat Barqah, released a new video titled “Point of Death” documenting its recent activity in Libya. On 6 July, ISIS published a photo showing the captivity of LNA fighters who had been abducted just over a week before.