Libya: May 18 attack on airbase leaves 141 dead, risks escalation

Event

On Friday, May 19, a spokesperson for the Libyan National Army (LNA) forces announced that up to 141 people were killed on Thursday, May 18, in an attack on the Brak Al-Shati airbase in southern Libya. The LNA representative said 103 of those killed in the attack carried out by Third Force, a militia that is supposedly aligned with the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli and previously held control of the base, were LNA troops.

Unconfirmed reports by media and NGO sources indicate some of the victims, possibly including civilians, were executed en masse. The UN envoy to Libya denounced the attack and reported mass executions. The GNA defense minister and the commander of Third Force have been suspended by GNA Prime Minister Fayez Seraj - who also strongly condemned the incident, which threatens an informal truce reached earlier in the year - while the attack is under investigation. LNA forces reportedly carried out retaliatory air strikes in the Sabha and Al-Jufrah regions.

Context

The security situation remains volatile in the strategically important Sabha and Al-Jufrah regions after the LNA's attempt to oust Misratan and Benghazi Defense Brigades (BDB) forces from the area in late December 2016. There are concerns that the fighting could trigger existing long standing tensions in Sabha City, which is home to a number of different tribes, communities, and factions.

Advice

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.