Libya: Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) holiday June 14-17

Event

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began on May 16, is likely to come to an end at sundown on Thursday, June 14 (depending on the moon). During this time, operations in Libya will come to a virtual standstill as Muslims gather to pray and celebrate with family and friends. Eid al-Fitr celebrations are likely to have a significant impact on many businesses, stock exchanges, and public services, which may be unavailable or operating on a reduced schedule. Festivities (and disruptions) could continue into Sunday, June 17. As this period is typically marked by increased travel, heavy road traffic after sundown along with other transportation disruptions (crowded airports, etc.) is to be anticipated. Though no specific terror threats have been tied to Eid al-Fitr, there is a heightened risk of terror-related activity during the period, as is the case with other high-profile public celebrations.

Context

Eid al-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of a month of dawn-to-sunset fasting and remains one of the most important dates on the Muslim calendar. Generally speaking, the month of Ramadan is historically marred by a significant increase in terrorist threats and as such there is a potential for attacks to be carried out during Eid celebrations.

Militants have carried out several attacks in Libya during Ramadan this year. A number of key cities within the eastern region have been placed on an elevated state of alert following a spate of terrorist attacks against targets in the east, due in part to the fact that terrorist groups in the region have suffered recent territorial losses in Derna and are seeking to retaliate with mass casualty attacks. Notably, the Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for a series of concerted attacks against two checkpoints in the Ajdabiya area on May 22. On May 24, IS militants carried out a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack in central Benghazi, killing seven people and wounding dozens of others.

Advice

Individuals in Libya are advised to allow for additional travel time, to remain vigilant, and to avoid large public gatherings.

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.