Libya: National Oil Corporation attack concluded late September 10

Event

The attack on the National Oil Corporation (NOC) building in the Dahra area of Tripoli came to an end around midnight on September 10-11 (local time), after the Rada Deterrence Force (RDF) launched an assault to regain control of the building. Two of the attackers were killed in the operation. Local authorities also reported two dead among the company's staff and at least ten wounded. Although no group has claimed responsibility for the assault, the Interior Ministry suspects the attackers to be affiliated to the Islamic State (IS).

Context

The NOC headquarters came under attack on September 10, when six attackers detonated explosives and took hostages. This attack comes less than a week after the UN brokered a ceasefire to put an end to the violent clashes opposing rival militias in Tripoli. 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, notably as it has also been the stage of numerous IS-affiliated terrorist attacks.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to shelter in place until the situation stabilizes. 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.