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.
Other 15 Nov 2016
Jihadi groups seemed to be on the back foot last week, perhaps rattled by Trump’s victory given his anti-jihadi stance. Clashes between the LNA and BRSC intensified in Benghazi, with the BRSC launching Grad missiles and issuing a statement claiming that victory against Haftar is near. In Derna, the LNA raided a significant DMSC weapons cache to the west of the city, while the DMSC declared a military zone in part of the city.
Anti 15 Nov 2016
PM Fayez Serraj and his allies are taking active measures to entrench the GNA’s de facto control in the capital by creating new security forces and appointing ministers, provoking fears in Eastern Libya that the GNA intends to ‘go it alone’.
Action 8 Nov 16
BM forces stormed ISIS’s stronghold of al-Jiza al-Bahriya in Sirte last week, evacuating families used as human shields. BM forces are expected to declare victory against ISIS in Sirte soon.
Western 8 Nov 16
There has been confusion this week over whether American airstrikes against ISIS positions in Sirte have ended or have just been paused temporarily, while the outcomes of the economic meeting in London are still unclear.
Other 8 Nov 16
In Tripoli, tensions are growing between RADA and BRSC, with two RADA officers assassinated last week. In Benghazi, there was an assassination attempt against the head of the Magharba tribe while the GNA MoD is believed to be allying with BDB militias.
Anti 8 Nov 16
GNA Defence Minister Mahdi al-Barghathi condemned Haftar and the LNA last week, accusing them of carrying out assassinations and human rights abuses in eastern Libya. The LNA fears Barghati is allying with BDB militias and Jadhran loyalists to launch a counter-attack on the oil crescent.
Action 1 Nov 16
In Sirte, the BM spokesperson also said BM forces are allowing any civilians still living in the densely populated al-Jiza al-Bahriya area to evacuate before they make their ‘final’ assault.
Western 1 Nov 16
Western powers hosted a controversial meeting in London on 31 October between Libyan officials to discuss Libya’s deteriorating economic situation, during which they reiterated their support for the GNA and Libyan Political Agreement.
Other 1 Nov 16
Fierce fighting between the LNA and jihadi forces continues in Benghazi. 5 LNA soldiers were killed last week trying to clear a mine field in Ganfuda, while 4 civilians were killed and many injured when an IED exploded in Kish Square.