Libya: Fighting in Tripoli kills 400 as of May 5 /update 3

Event

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 432 people have died during fighting in and near Tripoli as of Sunday, May 5, since Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and the Libyan National Army (LNA) launched his offensive against the city, including at least 40 that were killed since previous WHO report on Thursday, May 2. Additionally, an estimated 2000 people have been wounded and 50,000 displaced. The LNA rejected the UN calls for a humanitarian truce during the first week of Ramadan, beginning Monday, May 6, though no notable airstrikes were launched on Monday. Further violence, particularly shelling and airstrikes, are likely in the coming weeks, especially in contested areas to the south of Tripoli.

Context

The LNA launched an advance on Tripoli on April 4. Evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli began en masse on April 7. LNA and GNA airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. Notably, on April 12, LNA forces targeted a GNA-controlled radar station in Zuwara, some 100 km (60 mi) west of Tripoli, with attack helicopters. LNA officials supporting Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar have announced their intention to continue the advance on Tripoli and signaled possible conflict in central oil ports, such as Ras Lanuf and As-Sidr. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in Tripoli's southern suburbs. 

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid areas affected by the fighting, 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.