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.
8 – 14 March: Clashes escalate in Hay al-Andalus, Tripoli
Clashes erupted on 13/14 March in western Tripoli between Tripoli militias including Kara and Tajouri’s forces on one side, and Amazigh and Misratan militias on the other.
BDB Aims to Rescue Jihadists in Benghazi From Haftar
A BDB commander said “our goal is to rescue Benghazi from Haftar and return displaced families to their homes”. The LNA siege against jihadist fighters from the BRSC, Ansar al-Sharia and Islamic State in the 12 Flats area of Ganfuda is ongoing
West Calls for Ceasefire, Egypt Doesn’t Mention BDB Advance
Egypt issued a statement calling for Libyan parties to continue with political negotiations, but did not mention the BDB advances against the LNA. The UN, UK, US and France have condemned the escalation of violence.
Islamist Benghazi Defence Brigades Seize Oil Crescent Ports
The Islamist Benghazi Defence Brigades launched a surprise attack against the LNA in the oil crescent last week, pushing the LNA back to Brega and taking control of two oil ports. The LNA has accused the PC of working with BDB and other jihadists to mastermind the attack.
PC Condemns BDB Attack But Some Members Give Support
The PC issued a statement condemning the BDB’s attack on the oil crescent on 3 March, however two PC members have publically said they support the BDB while GNA MoD has also been accused of supporting the attacking force .
Feb 22 – 28: ISIS Fighter Executed by LNA-Aligned Salafi Group
On 24 February, an LNA-aligned Salafi group called Tariq Ibn Ziyad Brigade released a video showing the execution of Mohamed Mustafa al-Mugharbi (aka Randa al-Abed), a high-profile fighter for ISIS in Benghazi.
Feb 22 – 28: Regionally-Brokered Libya Political Agreement Stalls
Last week, the HoR President Ageelah Saleh gave the HoR an ultimatum to appoint a new representative committee for the negotiations. However, a delegation has yet been appointed.
Feb 22 – 28: LNA Fighters & Jihadists Killed in Ganfuda Fighting
On 23 February, 3 LNA soldiers and 3 jihadists died during an intensive door-to-door battle in the 12 flats area. Several graves were also found in buildings in Ganfuda.
22 – 28 Feb: Eastern Libya Travel Ban on 18 – 45 Year Olds
On 22 February, Abdul Razzaq al-Nadhouri introduced a new measure banning all 18-45 year olds (male and female) in eastern Libya from travel without a security permit. In Tripoli, heavy clashes erupted between pro and anti GNA militias leading to several deaths.