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.
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.
Anti-ISIS Operation in Sirte Officially Complete
The GNA officially declared the operation against ISIS in Sirte victorious although BM forces continue to sweep the city for mines, explosives and fighters, while US AFRICOM continues to provide support to monitor Sirte and the surrounding area.
UNSMIL, Russia, Egypt and Algeria Hold Diplomatic Talks on Libya
Last week, the UN held a conference in Tunis to discuss how the international community can support the GNA’s fledgling presidential guard. A number of high-level diplomatic events in Egypt, Russia and Algeria also took place that may indicate a shift towards a more Haftar-inclusive approach to the Libyan peace process at an international level.
Gains in Ganfuda but Several LNA Fighters Killed
LNA forces are making gradual gains against jihadi fighters in Ganfuda but 11 LNA fighters were killed in one day last week during intense fighting. A vessel travelling from Misrata to Benghazi loaded with weapons and personnel was intercepted as Misratan authorities begin to crack down on hardliners in the city.
LNA to ‘Liberate’ Tripoli; Mobilizes Forces South of Zawiyya
Haftar and the LNA attempt to exert their influence in western Libya, announcing that a new offensive to take Tripoli is ‘imminent’ and mobilising LNA forces south of Zawiyya.