Libya: Pro-GNC militia launches attack in Tripoli May 26

Event

A pro-GNC (General National Congress) militia launched an offensive to re-enter Tripoli on Friday, May 26, using tanks and light improvised fighting vehicles. Various explosions were heard and heavy fighting was reported in areas of the capital including the Salahuddin, Hadba, Ain Zara, and Abu Saleem neighborhoods and around the Rixos Hotel. No reports of casualties have emerged yet. The offensive could continue for an extended period of time as counter-offensives are expected.

Context

Libya is currently home to three competing would-be governments. A recent series of meetings between the UN-backed GNA (Government of National Accord) and the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Khalifa Haftar in the east of the country, has left the GNC increasingly isolated and at risk of political irrelevancy. For these reasons, the GNC is unwilling to quietly accept the political maneuvers taking place without it, and should be counted upon to attempt to derail the still largely nominal political progress made in working towards a rapprochement between eastern and western Libya.

Further clashes are expected, especially in the southern part of Tripoli, as the GNC looks to reclaim territory it lost to GNA-aligned militias in March.

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.