16 Jan 2018 | 09:41 AM UTC
Libya: Tripoli-Matiga Airport closed due to fighting Jan. 15
Tripoli's Matiga Airport has temporarily closed due to fighting in Tajoura as of Monday, January 15
Event
Tripoli's Matiga International Airport (MJI) is currently closed as of Monday morning, January 15, due to fighting around Shat Road, in the Sidi Andulsi roundabout area. Fighting has erupted between RADA Special Deterrence Forces (RDF) and the Al-Bogra-aligned Zimrina Brigade in Tajoura; small arms fire and explosions have been reported.
Context
Tensions have been ongoing between the RDF and Al-Bogra since late 2017. Al-Bogra was previously aligned with the General National Congress (GNC) and has been engaged in a number of clashes with the RDF, and to a lesser extent the Tripoli Revolutionaries Brigade (TRB), since November 2017.
Advice
Travelers are advised to confirm flight statuses prior to departure for MJI and to exercise caution in the area.
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.
