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.
Western 27 Sept 16
A wide range of international and regional actors last week reiterated their support for the Libyan Political Agreement, called for de-escalation of the situation and welcomed the resumption of oil exports. U.S. AFRICOM also reported that the US has carried out 169 airstrikes to date in Sirte.
Other 27 Sept 16
Fighting between LNA forces and jihadist groups continued last week in Benghazi and Derna, with little tangible progress taking place. The Benghazi Defence Brigades have been accused of launching airstrikes against LNA forces in the southern town of Jufra, which killed several civilians.
Anti 27 Sept 16
Political tensions and rifts between hardline pro and anti LNA factions are growing after Haftar’s seizure of the oil crescent ports. The High Council of State last week declared it was taking legislative power from the HoR due to its support for Haftar and his military takeover, although this statement has been widely rejected by local and international actors.
Action 20 Sept 16
In Sirte, Misratan-led forces have begun a final push to destroy remaining pockets of ISIS in Sirte, while clashes have broken out between ISIS fighters and other militias to the south of Sirte, confirming that some ISIS members have managed to seep out of the city.
Western 20 Sept 16
General Khalifa Haftar’s seizure of ports in the oil crescent on 11 September and the reopening of oil exports have dominated the international response to events in Libya over the last week. The Western response has shifted towards supporting Haftar’s control of the ports, so long as oil is being exported under the National Oil Corporation (NOC).
Other 20 Sept 16
Fighting in Benghazi reduced dramatically in the last week, with only intermittent clashes taking place between the Libyan National Army (LNA) and jihadists, while the LNA continues to launch airstrikes against Derna Mujahedeen Shura Council (DMSC) positions in Derna.
Anti 20 Sept 16
The anti-ISIS coalition, such as exists, is in a state of flux after Haftar’s seizure of the oil ports. Misratan officials have said that they will not go to war against the LNA to support Jadhran, however after Haftar’s forces succeeded in repelling a counter attack against the Sidra and Ras Lanuf ports, they pushed to within 50km of Sirte where Misrata are currently battling ISIS.
Action 13 Sept 16
In Sirte, the Misratan-led Bunyan al-Marsus forces have continued to make gains against the remaining ISIS forces, which are now holed up in a very small section of the city. However, progress is slow because the Misratans continue to suffer losses from sniper fire and suicide attacks.
Western 13 Sept 16
The international community has condemned the LNA takeover of the oil crescent ports and has called for a cessation of hostilities, as well as unity in fighting ISIS.