Libya: Renewed clashes again close Mitiga Airport Oct. 17 /update 4

Event

Renewed clashes in Tripoli's Ghararat and Souq Al-Juma areas have again prompted the closure of Mitiga International Airport (MJI) on the evening of Tuesday, October 17. After briefly reopening earlier in the day, authorities announced the evacuation and closure of Mitiga Airport at approximately 18:00 (local time), as heavy gunfire resumed between RADA Special Deterrence Forces (RDF) and reported criminal gangs. It is not known when the airport is expected to reopen.

Earlier on Tuesday, the main Coastal Highway in central Tripoli was closed by the RDF following reports of related small arms fire in the area. No official RDF statement has yet been released on the number of casualties from the clashes, though some news sources have reported several dead and wounded, including senior members on both sides. Consequently, intensified clashes in the affected areas are expected in the coming days, and the widening of the conflict to include other local militias remains possible.

Context

The airport was temporarily closed on Monday morning due to heavy clashes in the area that began on Sunday night. The RDF conducted raids on Sunday evening against gangs reportedly involved in alcohol and drug sales south of MJI, leading to the death of one alleged criminal leader and the arrests of at least three people. No physical damage to the airport has been reported.

Advice

Travelers are advised to confirm flight statuses prior to departure for Mitiga International Airport, and to exercise caution in the area. Nonessential travel to the Souq Al-Juma area and the vicinity of the Coastal Highway should be deferred at this time. On a general note, 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.