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.
Anti – 2 March 2015
The brigade sent by the GNC to Sirte is still believed to be on the outskirts of the town and has not made any attempt to engage militarily. There were reports in the Arabic media this week that Haftar had launched three bombing raids on Sirte on 1 March.
Action – 2 March 2015
The Islamic State released video directed at foreign fighters, calling on them to come to Libya because “the state of Islam is expanding.” UN-sponsored peace talks that were due to take place in Morocco on 26 February were postponed following the HoR’s announcement last week that it was suspending its participation in the process.
Western – 2 March 2015
British Ambassador to the UN, Sir Mark Lyall Grant stated during an interview with the Al-Arabiya television channel that Libya would only be supplied with weapons to fight IS if it agreed to a national unity government first.
Action – 23 February 2015
On Sunday 22 February, the vacant residence of the Iranian Ambassador was bombed twice in an attack for which Islamic State cells in Libya later claimed responsibility. In revenge for Egyptian air strikes after the execution of Egyptian Coptic Christians, on Friday 20 February, radical groups from Derna detonated three car bombs in the city of Qubbah, currently affiliated with OD and the Tubruq establishment, killing 40 and wounding 70.
Western – 23 February 2015
There was no overt Western response to jihadi activity this week.
Other – 23 February 2015
There was no significant activity by other jihadi actors this week.
Anti – 23 February 2015
Operation Dignity forces appear to have consolidated their control over the strategic maritime port area in central Benghazi. The Egyptian air force repeatedly targeted Derna in retaliation for the beheading of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians at the hands of radical Jihadists in Sirte affiliated with the Islamic State. The 166th Battalion of the Libyan National Army is reportedly gathering at the entrance of the city of Sirte.
Action – 16 February 2015
ISIS in Sirte (Tripoli Wilayat) released a video depicting the beheadings of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians on 15 February. ISIS elements extended their control over parts of Sirte this week. On 13 February gunmen attacked the Bahi oil facility.
Western – 16 February 2015
Italian Defence Minister, Roberta Pinotto, stated in an interview published on 15 February that the situation in Libya was urgent after the beheadings and that Rome was ready to fight against Islamist militants in the context of an international mission including European and North African powers.