07 Apr 2019 | 06:22 PM UTC
Libya: At least 21 people killed in clashes outside Tripoli as of April 7 /update 3
At least 21 people killed in clashes between LNA and GNA-backed forces outside Tripoli as of April 7; further clashes expected over the coming hours and days
Event
Officials with the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA)-aligned forces indicated on Sunday, April 7, that fighting with Khalifa Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) outside Tripoli has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people. Meanwhile, LNA forces claim it had carried out airstrikes on GNA-aligned positions on Sunday, although this remains unconfirmed. Since Friday, April 5, clashes have reportedly centered around Al-Aziziyah, Check Point 27 (10 km [6 mi] west of Tripoli), and near the non-operational Tripoli International Airport (TIP).
As of Sunday, a contingent of US troops, UN non-essential personnel, Indian peacekeepers, and other multinational companies began evacuating staff from the country due to the precarious security situation outside Tripoli.
Additional clashes are likely in the Tripoli area over the coming hours and days, though local reporting suggests that it is not in Haftar's interest to trigger widespread conflict in the capital as it would undermine his cultivated image as a guarantor of security in Libya. As of April 7, the conflict remains contained to the southern environs of Tripoli, although developments could disrupt air travel from Mitiga (MJI) and Misrata (MRA) airports.
A heightened security presence and disruptions to movement are nonetheless to be expected in Tripoli amid the state of emergency declared over the capital by GNA Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj on Thursday, April 4, following the LNA's announcement that they would advance on GNA-aligned positions in Tripolitania region.
Context
The LNA advance comes ahead of expected unity government negotiations set to take place during the National Conference in Ghadames on April 14-16. On April 6, UN envoy Ghassan Salame confirmed the international body still intends to hold talks despite the recent fighting.
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 Tripoli are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, and refrain from nonessential movement within the city.
The security environment in Libya remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
