Libya: Turkey signs military agreement with GNA on July 3

Event

On Friday, July 3, the Turkish defense minister reportedly signed an agreement with the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA), guaranteeing protection of Turkish interests and permitting direct Turkish military intervention in the country. The new agreement allows for the establishment of a Turkish military base in Libya, as well as the creation of a Turkish force. In addition, the agreement calls for greater military cooperation between the GNA and Turkey in their fight against the Tobruk-based Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, and grants Turkish military personnel greater legal rights when in the country.

Further violence between the GNA and LNA is to be expected in the near to medium-term.

Context

The GNA regained full control of Tripoli and its surrounding administrative districts from the LNA on 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. Since then, both sides have attempted to secure foreign reinforcements ahead of an expected clash over the strategic city of Sirte in central Libya.

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.