Libya: LNA announces unilateral ceasefire during Ramadan April 29

Event

On Wednesday, April 29, Libyan National Army (LNA) spokesman Major General Ahmed Mismari announced that the LNA would observe a unilateral ceasefire over the month of Ramadan. However, Mismari warned that the LNA reserved the right to defend itself from aggression by the UN recognized Government of National Accord (GNA). As of Thursday, April 30, the GNA is yet to respond. International media outlets reported explosions in the center of the capital, Tripoli, following the announcement. Local sources report indirect fire in the capital overnight and into the morning of Thursday, April 30 (local time).

Context

The declaration of a unilateral ceasefire comes following a series of setbacks for the LNA, as Turkish-backed GNA forces have pushed back LNA influence around Tripoli over the month of April.

Since an LNA offensive on Tripoli in April 2019, several ceasefires between the GNA and LNA have fallen through.

The Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4, 2019, and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli on April 7, 2019. LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8, 2019. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.

Advice

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.