Libya: Protests ongoing nationwide Aug. 28 after foreign minister meets Israeli counterpart /update 1

Event

Protests are ongoing nationwide as of early Aug. 28 after Israel's Foreign Ministry announced that Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush secretly met with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen last week in Italy. In Tripoli, protesters have stormed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and reportedly set Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh's residence on fire. There have also been reports of gunfire in the vicinity of the foreign affairs ministry. In other cities, protesters have gathered outside government buildings and blocked roads.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely near protest locations, especially in Tripoli, over the coming hours. Additional demonstrations and clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out over the short term.

Advice

Avoid all protest sites until the situation stabilizes. Consider taking alternative routes to avoid protests and any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials and your home government.