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.
Clashes Resume in Ganfuda, LNA Fighters & Senior Jihadis Killed
Last week, clashes resumed between the Libyan National Army (LNA) commanded by Haftar and the coalition of jihadis in Benghazi as the LNA attempted to take full control of the Abu Saneeb area of Ganfuda. A number of LNA fighters and jihadi fighters were killed during the fighting.
Ghwell’s Seizure of Tripoli Ministries & Blackouts Provoke Tensions
On 12 January, militias allied to Khalifa al-Ghwell, leader of a rival government in Tripoli, seized several ministerial buildings in Tripoli, while the whole of western and southern Libya continues to suffer chronic power outages, provoking tensions and anti-GNA sentiment
ISIS Fighter Says Tunisian Journalists Killed in Derna
There are reports of ISIS fighters sabotaging infrastructure in south-west Libya, including an attack on the Man Made River pipeline. An anti-ISIS tribal coalition has reportedly been formed to counter this threat. In Sirte, an ISIS suicide bomber attacked BM forces but no casualties were reported, while ISIS fighter says Tunisia journalists were executed in Derna.
Italian Embassy Reopens in Tripoli
On 9 January, the Italian Foreign Ministry announced it was sending its ambassador back to Libya. It is the first Western diplomatic mission to reopen in the country. The statement said the ambassador would present his credentials to the GNA on 10 January and would start work in Tripoli immediately.
Jihadi Fighters Attempt to Flee LNA Siege in Benghazi
On 5 January, a group of jihadi fighters including ISIS, AS and BRSC militants attempted a coordinated breakout from the Sabri and Ganfuda areas in Benghazi, which are currently besieged by LNA forces. LNA fighters captured a number of key AS and BRSC figures.
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.