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.
August 9-15: BM Chaperons Italian military visit to Sirte’s al-Qardabiyah Airport
A team of Italian military and security advisors visited Sirte’s al-Qardabiyah airport to assess ‘reconstruction.’ The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for LNA’s Mahmoud Mustafa Busayf al-Werfalli. There are reports that an armed security contingent for the UN is planned to offload in Khoms port.
August 9-15: Misratan power brokers and senior BM figures travelled to Qatar
On 13 August, a delegation of Misratan power brokers and senior BM figures travelled to Qatar to meet with Qatari officials. Media reports say Qatar is prepared to support the BM’s military operations in addition to logistical support. The conflict between the LNA and DMSC deescalated slightly as the LNA eased the full siege it enacted on Derna two weeks ago, but new airstrikes on DMSC positions in the west of the city indicate a potential for re-escalation.
August 9-15: Haftar seeks to ‘Liberate’ Libya despite Political Solution
The recent political rapprochement attempts between Fayez al-Serraj, Prime Minister of the Government of National Accord (GNA), and Libyan National Army (LNA) Commander Khalifa Haftar, may be in jeopardy as recent statements from the LNA hint that Haftar is still intent on gain control of the capital though military measures.
1-8 August: Italian Authorities Accuse ISIS and Italian Mafia of Cooperation
Despite a lack of concrete evidence of connection between the mafia and extremist groups, rumors circulate about cooperation in the illicit economy via fuel and drug smuggling in the Sahara Desert. GNA- aligned al-Bunyan al-Marsus forces continue to conduct anti-ISIS reconnaissance missions in Abu Hadi area, south of Sirte.
1-8 August: UN Envoy to Libya Ghassan Salame Makes First Official Visit to Libya
On August 3, an Italian naval patrol boat, the Commandante Borsini, arrived in Tripoli with a group of experts for a five-day working visit; a second vessel is expected to replace it on August 8. LNA commander Khalifa Haftar called on Libyan armed forces in the west to repel Italian vessels with force should they enter Libyan waters. Those who oppose the Italians see their presence as a violation of Libyan sovereignty and evidence of imperial intent.
1-8 August: Siege of Derna intensifies as Saiqa Special Forces join LNA Forces against DMSC
In late July after the DMSC downed an LNA jet over Derna and alleged killed and mutilated its pilot Adel Jehani, triggering a tightening of the LNA siege on the city. Local sources report that the LNA’s Saiqa Special Forces have reportedly moved to Derna to join the LNA in preparation for a major assault on the city in conjunction with an internal uprising, targeting key DMSC leaders and military targets.
1-8 August: Misratan and LNA Delegations Bridge Divides in Cairo
On 1-3 August, Egypt facilitated mediation talks between LNA and Misratan delegations in Cairo. A understanding between both delegations hinged on respect of Libya’s unity and sovereignty, efforts to avoid bloodshed, build a civilian state, discard all kinds of foreign intervention and fight terrorism and criminal groups, including militias.
July 24-August 1st 2017: Eastern Libyan Delegation Visits Egypt; UNSC and USDOS Endorse Paris Meeting
On 27 July, the UN Security Council (UNSC) announced its support for the joint declaration issued following the meeting between Serraj and Haftar in Paris. The US State Department published a similar endorsement and restated its commitment to peace in Libya. On 30 July, large delegations from eastern Libya, including HoR president Agilah Saleh, attended meetings in Cairo facilitated by the Egyptian Foreign Minister and Chief of Staff.
July 24-August 1st 2017: Sabratha Municipal Council Mobilizes New Anti-ISIS Force
On 29 July, the Sabratha municipal council, with the cooperation of local tribes, mobilized a new security force. Dubbed the ‘anti-Islamic State (ISIS) Operation Room’ the force is intended to police the areas around Sabratha and Mellitah. After raising the anti-ISIS alert level last week, BM forces reported that ISIS activity on the road between Sirte and Jufra continues.