Libya: Armed clashes remain possible over the coming days in Tripoli following clashes in Ain Zara area Aug. 14-15 /update 1

Event

Further violence remains possible over the coming days in Tripoli's Ain Zara area following clashes Aug. 14-15. Intermittent clashes spread overnight to areas around the Tripoli Medical Centre, Gypsum Road, and near the University. The fighting has resulted in significant disruptions to operations at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI), including some delays and cancellations. Some flights to and from MJI have been diverted to Misrata International Airport (MRA). At least 16 people have been wounded in the fighting so far; casualty figures will likely rise in the coming days.

Judicial Police members are reported to be stopping and detaining individuals wearing military uniforms and traveling toward the southern areas of the capital region. Armed personnel have also mobilized on the Airport Road and Eastern Habda Road.

Heightened security, business and transport disruptions, as well as further clashes are possible in the area over the coming days. Further flight disruptions, including a complete cessation of operations, cannot be ruled out at MJI.

Context

Fighting initially broke out in the Ain Zara area late Aug. 14 after the arrest of Mahmoud Hamza, commander of the 444 Brigade militia, by the Deterrence Apparatus for Combating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DACOCT, affiliated with the RADA Special Deterrence Forces, SDF) at MJI.

Advice

Avoid areas impacted by armed clashes until the situation stabilizes. If fighting breaks out in your area, leave the immediate vicinity and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. If operating in Tripoli, consider taking alternative routes to avoid the fighting. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and your home government.