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.

1-8 December: Increased international military engagement

Dec 9, 2020

Over the last week, there have been signs that international actors are stepping up military engagement, potentially violating the permanent ceasefire agreement. On 4 December, the GNA signed a military cooperation agreement with Italy to strengthen capacities in training and health care activities. On 6 December, the SOHR reported that Turkey was preparing to send a new batch of Syrian fighters to Libya. On the same day, a document surfaced dating back to November revealing that 1,200 soldiers from the Sudanese paramilitary RSF were given permission to be deployed at Jufra airbase.

1-8 December: LNA mobilized to capture military camp in Ubari

Dec 9, 2020

Over the last week, the LNA strengthened its defenses and mobilized troops, particularly on the Sirte-Jufra axis. On 5 December, the Libyan Revolutionaries Leadership Gathering held a conference in Zawiyya where it ‘urged all Libyan authorities to work toward activating the role of the Libyan National Guard’. On 6 December, the LNA issued a decree calling on its troops on the Sirte-Jufra frontlines to assume ‘a state of readiness.’. On the same day, the LNA mobilised in preparation to capture a military camp in Ubari. On 8 December, LNA forces detained a Turkish ship, which was apparently transporting medical products to Misrata port.

25 November – 1 December: US sanctions Kaniyat

Dec 2, 2020

On 25 November, the US unilaterally blacklisted the Kaniyat militia. On 24 November, Speaker of the HoR, Saleh, arrived in Moscow to meet with Russian officials. On 23 November, the 5+5 JMC met with the Security Working Group formed through the so-called Berlin process of January 2020 to brief the international community.

25 November – 1 December: Third round of LPDF continues

Dec 2, 2020

On 25 November, Acting Head of UNSMIL, Stephanie Williams convened the third round of virtual meetings of the LPDF. From 23 – 28 November, more than 120 deputies from the HoR, HCS, and the boycotting Tripoli-based HoR met in Tangier, Morocco. On 26 November, a European tracking system recorded that military aircraft from Turkey landing at the al-Watiya Air Base.