On 9 October, the first official narrative from the Libyan National Army (LNA) about the recent clashes in Benghazi was delivered by the Government of National Stability (GNS) Deputy Minister of Interior, Faraj Qaim, in a television interview. Qaim said that the LNA ‘confronted terrorist cells attempting to destabilize the province. These cells entered Benghazi illegally and engaged in sabotage activities, including damaging fibre optic networks, which disrupted citizens’ daily lives.’ He stressed that ‘foreign countries might be behind these destabilization efforts in Libya, and they have reportedly collaborated with certain Libyan individuals who received financial support.’ He noted that the situation is currently stable and under control. He added that ‘people who write on Facebook will be judged like criminals who carry arms’, stressing the LNA would find them whether they are in Tubruq, Kufra, Benghazi or anywhere. ‘We will not forgive anyone’ he said.