Libya: Airstrike in Murzuq reportedly kills 43 people August 4

Event

The Khalifa Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) is being accused of targeting civilians at a town center in Murzuq on Sunday, August 4. According to a local official, at least 43 people were killed and another 60 wounded in the airstrike. LNA leaders confirmed the strike but denied it had targeted civilians. The EU delegation also confirmed the strike; however, there has been no independent confirmation of the target of the airstrike. 

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 Libya 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.