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.
Feb 22 – 28: LNA Fighters & Jihadists Killed in Ganfuda Fighting
On 23 February, 3 LNA soldiers and 3 jihadists died during an intensive door-to-door battle in the 12 flats area. Several graves were also found in buildings in Ganfuda.
22 – 28 Feb: Eastern Libya Travel Ban on 18 – 45 Year Olds
On 22 February, Abdul Razzaq al-Nadhouri introduced a new measure banning all 18-45 year olds (male and female) in eastern Libya from travel without a security permit. In Tripoli, heavy clashes erupted between pro and anti GNA militias leading to several deaths.
15 – 21 Feb: US Libya Strike Provided ‘Actionable Intelligence’
Marine Gen. Thomas Waldhauser, the head of US Africa Command, said that the US obtained significant intelligence from the Islamic State (ISIS) camps, located 45km south of Sirte, which were hit by US airstrikes on 19 January.
15 – 21 Feb: Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt Promote Libyan-Libyan Solution
On 20 February, Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt issued a ministerial declaration which stressed a ‘Libyan-Libyan’ political solution with regional and UN mediation within the framework of the LPA
15 – 21 Feb: Senior Ansar al-Sharia Fighter Killed in Ganfuda
Huthayfa al-Faqout, a senior Ansar al-Sharia fighter, was reported killed in fighting in Ganfuda last week while the DMSC issued a statement congratulating defecting LNA officers for their recent denunciation of Haftar.
15 – 21 Feb: Assassination Attempt on Serraj in Tripoli
On 20 February, a motorcade transporting GNA officials was fired upon during a visit to a security department in the capital. In the east, the LNA introduced a controversial travel ban preventing women under the age of 60 from travelling without a ‘mahram’.
ISIS Arms Cache Found, Fighters Spotted
A suspected ISIS arms cache containing unguided air-to-ground bombs and fuel was reportedly found by LNA units approximately 90km south of Nawfaliya, while there are reports ISIS cells are regrouping in the regions south-west of Misrata, near Bani Walid.
Serraj to Meet Haftar in Cairo
Serraj is due to meet with Haftar in Cairo on 14 February, after a planned meeting on 13 February was postponed. Serraj is expected to present a new political roadmap for the Libyan crisis, with the blessing of Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt.
LNA Bombs BDB in Jufra, BDB Downs Helicopter
The LNA launched airstrikes against several BDB positions in Jufra, killing two and injuring six. The BDB then managed to down an LNA helicopter, killing the whole crew, and released a video showing the attack.