Libya: LNA claims full control of Derna June 28 /update 6

Event

During a televised announcement on the evening (local time) of Thursday, June 28, Khalifa Haftar said that his Libyan National Army (LNA) has taken full control of the city of Derna. Heavy fighting was reported in Derna earlier in the day, including airstrike targeting Derna Protection Force (DPF) positions. Despite Haftar’s declaration, the remnants of the DPF may continue to carry out operations in and around the city.

Context

The LNA launched is operation to retake Derna from the DPF, an alliance of militias including members of the now-disbanded Mujahideen Shura Council of Derna, in mid-April. Thousands of residents have fled the city in recent weeks as severe food, water, and medicine shortages, as well as power outages, have affected the city.

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 Derna area, monitor the situation, and remain vigilant for potential militant activity.

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.