Libya: Clashes close oil ports in As-Sider and Ras Lanuf June 14

Event

Benghazi Defense Brigades (BDB) and allied Chadian militia fighters launched an attack on a fuel silo on the outskirts of Ras Lanuf on Thursday, June 14, setting it ablaze and prompting the closures and evacuations of oil terminals in Ras Lanuf and As-Sider. Fuel tankers have also been advised to stay clear from the port area due to the ongoing security situation.

The Libyan National Army (LNA), the dominant force in the area, has engaged the BDB and allied fighters south of Ras Lanuf, according to local sources, and launched airstrikes on their positions. Further clashes are expected in the area in the coming hours. Additional militia attacks on LNA positions are possible elsewhere in the oil crescent area in the near-term.

Context

The tempo of BDB militia activity has increased in recent days. Additionally, on June 12, reports claimed that the LNA Air Force had conducted a series of strikes against BDB fighters south of Sirte.

Libya has been divided by rival governments and factions with their own militias and political parties since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. The security situation in Libya remains precarious and the country is likely to remain unstable in the near-term amid the ongoing civil war.

Advice

Individuals in Libya are advised to avoid the affected areas, monitor the situation, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas (with appropriate security protocols in place), other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.