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.
12-17 Apr: LNA-GNA Conflict Escalates in the South
The LNA-GNA conflict escalates as the LNA increases airstrikes in the southwest, targeting key GNA airbases Teminhint and Jufra. The GNA calls for international assistance to end the proxy war in the South. GNA Defence Ministry Spokesperson Brigadier Mohammed Al-Ghousri, says that Haftar’s end is imminent with western intervention and a no-fly zone in southern Libya.
5-11 Apr: ISIS prisoners finally released in Libya
On 6 April, several Eritrean and Nigerian women who were captured and enslaved by ISIS in Sirte were released from prison in Misrata, and will be able to apply for asylum or be repatriated.
5-11 Apr: Haftar visits UAE as Serraj meets with AFRICOM
Khalifa Haftar met with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince in the UAE this week and the latter praised the LNA’s efforts to fight terrorism. Fayez al-Serraj met with the head of US AFRICOM and the US ambassador to Libya.
5-11 Apr: Secret Prisons in Ganfuda
Al Arabiya printed images this week of what it claims is a secret prison in Ganfuda, Benghazi where it claims people were imprisoned and tortured by jihadi fighters.
5-11 Apr: Clashes intensify between GNA and LNA in Teminhint
Clashes escalated last week between the LNA and the GNA in south-west Libya as the LNA bombed Teminhint airbase and GNA-aligned Misratan forces bombed Brak al-Shati airbase. At least 10 fighters have been killed.
Migration and Jihadism in the Sahel
Migration and Jihadism in the Sahel
The report looks at political rhetoric conflating migration across the Mediterranean with the apparent rise of violent jihadism in Europe and asks whether there is a demonstrable link between migrants, jihadist groups and the lucrative smuggling networks which link Africa to Europe, and if so, how can it be managed?
29 Mar – 4 Apr: Bridge in Benghazi destroyed by jihadi fighters
The al-Lathama bridge into Sabri in Benghazi was destroyed last week, reportedly by jihadists to prevent the LNA from advancing westwards. In Sirte, residents are returning and some public services are resuming.
29 Mar – 4 Apr: EU extends sanctions as Arab League backs GNA
The EU has extended sanctions against Saleh, Ghwell and Abu Sahmain for another 6 months as the Arab League Summit reiterated its support for the GNA and the LPA. The French met with Haftar and Saleh in Benghazi last week, while Russia has derailed the appointment of a new UN Libya envoy.
DMSC says it only recognizes Dar al-Ifta as LNA airstrikes continue
Intermittent clashes continue between the DMSC and LNA in south of Derna as DMSC says it only recognizes the authority of Dar al-Ifta. In the south-west, both the BDB and LNA appear to be building up their forces and supplies.