Libya: Armed groups commit to UN ceasefire in Tripoli

Event

Armed groups in Tripoli have committed to a September 4 UN-brokered ceasefire. According to reports, no fighting was reported on Wednesday, September 5, and Thursday, September 6. Nevertheless, minor clashes took place between the Seventh Brigade and other militias on Tuesday, September 4. Officials at Mitiga International Airport (MJI) announced that the airport was scheduled to reopen on Friday, September 7. Despite the ceasefire, further clashes remain possible in Tripoli in the near-term. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated throughout the city in the coming days.

Context

Clashes erupted around Tripoli on August 27 between the Seventh Brigade, the Tripoli Revolutionaries' Brigades, the Nawasi Brigade, and other militias. The UN brokered a ceasefire agreement on Tuesday, September 4 to put an end to hostilities, which have left at least 61 dead and dozens of wounded. Libya has been divided into 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 there is little to no sign of a return to relative stability in the near-term.

Advice

Individuals in Libya are advised to avoid the Tripoli area until the situation normalizes, as well as other active conflict areas and 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.