Libya: Clashes reported near Prime Minister's Office in Tripoli late March 30

Event

Armed clashes reportedly occurred near the Prime Minister's Office in Libya's capital of Tripoli late March 30. Further details regarding the incident were not immediately confirmed; however, unconfirmed reports indicate the clashes have prompted the evacuation of personnel from buildings in the area.

Clashes among rival militia groups are prevalent in Tripoli and elsewhere in western Libya. Libyan Government of National Unity (GNU) Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah increased security measures in Tripoli March 10. The action came following the mobilization of forces aligned with the Government of National Solidarity (GNS) headed by Prime Minister Fathi Bashagha.

Troop movements inside the capital and its environs are likely over the coming hours. Heightened security measures, including additional checkpoints along major routes, are possible through early April. Confrontations between opposing groups remain possible should further militia actions be taken. Disruptions to state operations are possible in response to militia deployments.

Context

Political instability and civil unrest are likely to persist in Libya following the Parliament’s approval of a new government. On March 1, Libya’s parliament voted for a new government despite the incumbent prime minister’s rejection of the vote. Bashagha was selected as prime minister along with a new government consisting of three deputy prime ministers, 29 ministers, and six ministers of state. Parliament’s vote highlights the continuing power struggle with interim Prime Minister Dbeibah, who was installed through a UN-backed process in 2021.

Because Dbeibah has pledged not to cede power, the result of the March 1 vote will almost certainly produce two parallel and competing administrations, which would almost certainly thwart UN efforts to ease political division in Libya. Previously, Libya was split between east- and west-based rival administrations supported by various militias and foreign actors. Bashagha’s new government risks triggering a new power struggle between the eastern-based assembly and Dbeibah's western-based interim government.

Advice

Exercise caution in Tripoli. Liaise with trusted contacts for updates. Avoid areas where armed forces appear to be gathering. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.