Libya: LNA shelling kills civilians in Tripoli April 16

Event

At least three civilians were killed and several others have been wounded in separate rocket attacks launched by Libyan National Army (LNA) forces in Tripoli on Thursday, April 16. Local media reports that at least one civilian was killed and three others were wounded in shelling that hit the Treeq Al-Soor area. Shelling in the Ain Zara area in southern Tripoli also reportedly killed a civilian at Tripoli University Hospital and another civilian was killed on Al-Hay Al-Diplomasi in Abu Salim. Reports also suggest LNA rockets hit the Al-Hadba Al Haddad neighborhood, damaging several houses and properties.

Further LNA shelling in Tripoli is expected over the near term.

Context

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 the 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 not 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.