Libyan actors
Tracking developments of Libyan Actors in Libya’s security space including armed group activity, state security operations and political activities pertaining to Libya’s security.
24 – 31 March: Saiqa commander Werfalli killed
On 24 March, a commander in the LNA’s Saiqa Battalion, Mahmoud Werfalli, was killed in Benghazi. On 29 March, Mohammed Salem, a prominent commander in the al-Samoud Brigade, was killed in Karimiyya.
Menfi in Istanbul for key talks on Turkey relationship
On 26 March, the President of Libya’s Presidential Council Mohammed Menfi and Vice-President Abdullah al-Lafi met the Turkish President Recep Tayeb Erdogan in Istanbul. The meeting was attended by the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. According to a statement...
18-24 March: Western governments discuss reviving Tripoli embassies
On 18 March, the spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that Russia had discussed reopening of Russia’s Embassy in Tripoli, with Dabaiba. On 21 March, the EU High Representative announced that Operation IRINI will be extended for a further two years. On 22 March, the EU imposed sanctions on the Kaniyat militia leaders. On 22 March, GNU Prime Minister held a call with the US Secretary of State.
18-24 March: Eastern parallel al-Thanni government hands over power to GNU
On 18 March, sources reported unrest in Abu Salim and the deployment of armoured vehicles and technicals by the SSA. On 18 March the GNU Prime Minister ordered an investigation after a number of bodies were discovered in Benghazi. On 23 March, the eastern parallel government handed over power to the new GNU.
Macron declares reopening of French embassy during Menfi’s visit to Paris
On 23 March, the President of Libya’s Presidential Council (PC) Mohammed Menfi, accompanied by PC member Musa al-Koni, met President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. In a joint press conference, Macron declared that France’s embassy in Tripoli will reopen from Monday. Macron...
EU sanctions Kaniyat militia leaders
On 22 March, the European Union imposed sanctions on Mohammed al-Kani, the former leader of the Kaniyat militia, and his brother Abdul Rahim al-Kani in relation to killings and kidnappings in Tarhouna between 2015 and 2020.
Blinken and Dabaiba in talks
On 22 March, GNU Prime Minister Abdul Hameed Dabaiba held a call with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. According to the US State Department, they discussed the need to conclude the Libyan crisis through an ‘inclusive political process, providing essential...
Italy signals intent to be first in line for Europe’s return to Libya
On 21 March, the Italian Foreign Minister, Luigi Di Maio, met GNU Prime Minister, Abdul Hameed Dabaiba, in Tripoli. They discussed bilateral relations, migration, and establishing a joint committee to re-establish trade between their countries. In a statement...
11 – 16 March: GNA claims that Russian and Sudanese fighters have returned to Sirte
On 8 March, the UAE reportedly transferred military equipment and personnel to an Egyptian military base at Sidi Barrani. On 12 March, the GNA stated that Russian and Sudanese mercenaries have returned to Sirte following their brief withdrawal.