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.
5-11 Apr: Secret Prisons in Ganfuda
Al Arabiya printed images this week of what it claims is a secret prison in Ganfuda, Benghazi where it claims people were imprisoned and tortured by jihadi fighters.
5-11 Apr: Clashes intensify between GNA and LNA in Teminhint
Clashes escalated last week between the LNA and the GNA in south-west Libya as the LNA bombed Teminhint airbase and GNA-aligned Misratan forces bombed Brak al-Shati airbase. At least 10 fighters have been killed.
Migration and Jihadism in the Sahel
Migration and Jihadism in the Sahel
The report looks at political rhetoric conflating migration across the Mediterranean with the apparent rise of violent jihadism in Europe and asks whether there is a demonstrable link between migrants, jihadist groups and the lucrative smuggling networks which link Africa to Europe, and if so, how can it be managed?
29 Mar – 4 Apr: Bridge in Benghazi destroyed by jihadi fighters
The al-Lathama bridge into Sabri in Benghazi was destroyed last week, reportedly by jihadists to prevent the LNA from advancing westwards. In Sirte, residents are returning and some public services are resuming.
29 Mar – 4 Apr: EU extends sanctions as Arab League backs GNA
The EU has extended sanctions against Saleh, Ghwell and Abu Sahmain for another 6 months as the Arab League Summit reiterated its support for the GNA and the LPA. The French met with Haftar and Saleh in Benghazi last week, while Russia has derailed the appointment of a new UN Libya envoy.
DMSC says it only recognizes Dar al-Ifta as LNA airstrikes continue
Intermittent clashes continue between the DMSC and LNA in south of Derna as DMSC says it only recognizes the authority of Dar al-Ifta. In the south-west, both the BDB and LNA appear to be building up their forces and supplies.
29 Mar – 4 Apr: HoR issues terms for participation in dialogue
The HoR voted on its terms for participating in the LPA including reducing the PC to three members, keeping only original GNC members in the HCS, and recognizing the LNA as Libya’s sole legitimate armed force.
22 – 28 Mar: US Will Maintain Force in Libya to Counter ISIS
Head of US AFRICOM says US will maintain a force in Libya to work with the GNA if necessary against ISIS, estimates 100 – 200 ISIS fighters left in the country.
22 – 28 Mar: UNSC P5 Issue Joint Statement Calling For Restraint in Libya
UNSC P5 issued a joint statement calling on all Libyan parties to settle differences through political processes, however the UNSC has still not agreed on a replacement for Kobler as UN Libya envoy.