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 – 21 July 2014
Tripoli continues to be gripped by violence as the battle between Zintani-led brigades and those from Misrata rages on. The area surrounding the Tripoli International Airport (TIA) has become a battle zone, while fighting has been reported in several Tripoli neighbourhoods, as well as in front of the Interior Ministry.
Anti – 21 July 2014
This week saw an attack against an Egyptian military post near the border with Libya and Sudan. The attack killed 21 Egyptian border guards and destroyed a weapons storage facility.
Action – 14 July 2014
The effects of ISIS leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi’s declaration of an Islamic caliphate in Iraq are already being felt in Libya. The leader of the Abu Mahjan Al-Ta’ifi Brigade, which refers to itself as ‘Al-Qa’ida in Libya’, has openly declared the group’s support for Baghdadi and sent 50 men, including fighters, doctors, and engineers, to Iraq to support ISIS.
Western – 14 July 2014
United Kingdom Special Envoy to Libya Jonathan Powell, along with his US and UN counterparts, are devising a new strategy to mediate between Libya’s warring factions. HoR Prime Minister Abdullah al-Thinni had a meeting with EU, UK, US, and UN ambassadors and envoys, during which he accused Westerners of destroying the Libyan military, while also requesting peacekeeping forces to protect Libyan government institutions.
Other – 14 June 2014
The long expected showdown between Misratan and Zintani forces in Tripoli appears to have kicked off with control of Tripoli International Airport a key point of contention. The Foreign Ministry remains under siege and bank robberies continue.
Anti – 14 June 2014
General Khalifa Haftar continues to fight militant groups in the East, and thus far shows no sign of making substantive progress.
Action – 7 July 2014
Violence has continued, especially in Benghazi where General Khalifa Haftar is still battling it out against Islamist militants. Meanwhile, Tripoli and its environs have been witness to an increase in kidnappings and violence, with three Europeans being abducted this week from Zuwara. Insecurity has also persisted to the west of the capital with competing militias clashing.
Western – 7 July 2014
There was no Western Response this week.
Other – July 7 2014
Kidnappings and assassinations struck Tripoli and Benghazi. The Foreign Ministry remained under siege and fighting continued in Derna.