Libya: Mortar rounds land near Mitiga Airport (MJI) August 24 /update 4

Event

Between two to three mortar rounds reportedly landed on the road outside of the entrance to Tripoli’s Mitiga Airport (MJI) on the morning (local time) of Saturday, August 24. The attack occurred at approximately 08:00 but has not forced the airport to close. According to local sources, departures have been temporarily suspended but incoming aircraft are still being allowed to land.

Further attacks targeting MJI are possible in the near term and may result in the temporarily closure of the airport.

Context

The airport has been targeted by air and mortar strikes multiple times in recent months; however, the strikes generally do not hit the main runway or any civilian facilities and normal flight operations have typically been restored within a few hours.

The Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4 and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli en masse on April 7. LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli and traveling via MJI are advised to monitor the situation, confirm flight reservations, avoid areas affected by fighting, maintain safe and current evacuation plans, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.