Libya: GNA claims control of Tarhouna (Murqub district) June 5

Event

The Government of National Accord (GNA) claimed to have gained control of the town of Tarhouna (Murqub district) on Friday, June 5, following the withdrawal of Libyan National Army (LNA) forces. Reports suggest that LNA forces withdrew overnight (local time) between Thursday, June 4, and Friday and that the GNA entered the town with no resistance. LNA forces have also withdrawn from Urban (Jabal al Gharbi district), however, they remain present in Bani Walid (Bani Walid district), where local resistance against the LNA been reported.

Further clashes between LNA and GNA forces in the area are possible in the near term.

Context

The GNA regained full control of Tripoli and its surrounding administrative districts from the LNA on Thursday, June 4, after LNA forces withdrew from various areas in the south of the city. The GNA offensive, dubbed 'Operation Peace Storm' was launched in March as a series of counterattacks against the LNA, which resulted in the capture of a number of important locations including the Al-Watiya airbase. Tarhouna had acted as a staging point from which the LNA had sustained its offensive against Tripoli since April 2019.

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.