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.
Head of Misrata Military Council Injured in LNA Airstrike
The Misratan Third Force retook the Gweirat al-Mal checkpoint from the LNA, while LNA fighters conducted airstrikes against Jufra airbase, injuring the head of Misrata Military Council. This lead to calls for all Misratans to mobilize against Haftar in the south, while protests were held in the south calling for Misrata to withdraw.
Reports of ISIS Presence in Southern Libya
There are reports of an ISIS presence in south-west Libya, with ISIS fighters reportedly use the desert roads to move between areas, raid supplies and establish checkpoints. In Sirte, a Salafist brigade has been tasked with securing the city.
Diplomacy Efforts by Russia, Egypt, Algeria Continue
Internationally, diplomacy efforts are gaining pace with Russia demanding a formal political role for Marshall Haftar, Algeria trying to broker dialogue between Haftar and the Islamists, and Egypt trying to pursue demands for amending the LPA and reforming the GNA.
Lull in Ganfuda Fighting to Allow Families to Leave
In Benghazi, there is a lull in the fighting in Ganfuda as the LNA say they are allowing trapped families to leave, although few have as they are apparently being held hostage by the jihadi fighters.
Hostilities Between Misrata & LNA in Southern Libya, Koni Resigns
New hostilities between Misratan forces and the LNA threaten to destabilize southern Libya and weaken the GNA. Deputy PM Musa al-Koni resigned his position on the PC, saying it had failed the Libyan people, while the PC agreed the new 2017 Libyan budget and issued some major security decisions.
ISIS Fighters Attack Water Pipe in Southern Libya
ISIS fighters attacked the main control station of the Man Made River pipe system southern Libya, however the LNA says the fighters have been driven away and that they now have control of the station. In Khoms, the mayor says last month’s beheading was not carried out by ISIS.
US AFRICOM Concludes Operations in Sirte
Last week, US AFRICOM concluded Operation Odyssey Lightning in Sirte while support is being given to the Stabilisation Facility for Libya. On 23 December, an internal Libya flight was hijacked and flown to Malta, where the hijackers were apprehended.
LNA Conducts Airstrikes Against BDB in Hun
The LNA air force launched airstrikes against a BDB base in Hun last week. A Misratan brigade reportedly suffered losses during the attack, indicating a possible alliance between the BDB and some Misratan forces.
Increasing Fragmentation Within Misratan Ranks
A number of incidents in Misrata and Tripoli have increased tensions within Misratan ranks, with a key Misratan cleric being abducted and tortured last week, while clashes broke out again in Tripoli.