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.
19 – 25 August: Ceasefire announcements by GNA and HoR
On 21 August, the GNA announced a nationwide ceasefire. The speaker of the HoR, Saleh, reiterated the call for a ceasefire along similar terms. On 23 August, the LNA spokesperson, al-Mismari, labelled the GNA’s effort as a ‘marketing stunt’ while not commenting on the HoR statement. Also on 23 August, multiple protests occurred throughout the western region, specifically in Tripoli and in Zawiyya.
12 – 18 August: LNA claims ISIS killings and captures in Southern Libya
On 16 August, the LNA claimed to have killed three ISIS-Libya fighters in Ghadduwa. On 12 August, a military operation in the Murzuq region led to the arrest of ‘suspected’ ISIS Libya affiliates.
12 – 18 August: No relevant developments.
No relevant developments.
12 – 18 August: German FM leads diplomatic initiative
On 17 August, a German delegation led by Foreign Minister Maas began a two-day trip to Tripoli and Abu Dhabi. The same day Qatari Defence Minister, al-Attiyah, Turkish Defence Minister Akar travelled to Tripoli to meet with senior GNA officials. Also on 17 August, Russian President Putin and Turkish President Erdogan held a phone call. On 14 August, Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zakharova claimed that Russia and Turkey would be holding negotiations on Libya. On 12 August, US Ambassador Norland visited Ankara, where he met with senior Turkish officials.
12 – 18 August: Haftar promotes 448 LNA officers
On 12 August, head the LNA, Haftar, promoted 448 LNA officers. On 13 August, photographs outside of Khoms Port purportedly showed a Turkish G-class frigate. The same day, Turkey and the GNA signed a MoU outlining enhanced economic cooperation. On 11 August, a security breach in Jalu prompted the formation of a joint-security room.
5 – 11 August: No relevant developments.
No relevant developments.
5 – 11 August: BDB commander allegedly in Turkey
On Libyan social media a photo of BDB commander Ziyad Balaam in Turkey is circulated with a new prosthetic limb.
5 – 11 August: US policy makers urge for demilitarised solution for Sirte and Jufra
On 4 August, US National Security Advisor O’Brien said President Trump had discussed the need to de-escalate the situation in Libya in phone calls with French President Macron, Egyptian President al-Sisi and Emirati Crown Prince Bin Zayed. On 7 August, a high-level US delegation held separate, virtual discussions with GNA National Security Advisor and HoR Foreign Affairs Committee Chair. On 10 August, Norland met with Egyptian officials in Cairo. On the same day, Norland met with HoR Speaker Aqeela Saleh. On 6 August, Turkish Foreign Minister Cavusolgu and Maltese Foreign Minister Bartolo met with al-Serraj. The same day, Egyptian Foreign Minister Shoukry and his Greek counterpart Dendias announced the signing of a maritime demarcation deal. On 10 August, Germany, France and Italy reportedly moved ahead with plans to impose sanctions on violators of the UN arms embargo.
5 – 11 August: GNA and LNA continue to build up forces near Sirte and Jufra
Over the last week, both the GNA and LNA have continued to build up forces near Sirte and Jufra. On 5 August, the GNA officials met with the Italian Defence Minister, Lorenzo Guerini. On 6 August, Haftar, met with the LNA Operation Room and Military Region Commanders in Benghazi. On 7 August, the TPF released a statement condemning the Muslim Brotherhood. On 8 August, al-Serraj, met with the Audit Bureau, Anti-Corruption Commission and Administrative Control Authority.