Libya-Tunisia: Authorities indefinitely close Ras Ajdir border crossing as of March 23 following armed clashes

The Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli has closed Libya's Ras Ajdir border crossing with Tunisia until further notice as of March 23. GNU Minister of the Interior Imad Trabelsi is reportedly demanding that local militias cede control of the Ras Ajdir border crossing to GNU authorities so that they can combat alleged drug trafficking and smuggling through it. The closure follows armed clashes in the area between local militia fighters and forces aligned with the GNU's Ministry of Interior that injured at least three people late March 18. Tunisian authorities also closed the crossing from their side following the clashes. Officials may change the terms of the border crossing closure or reopen the crossing on short notice.

Local militia groups, GNU-aligned security forces, and Tunisian authorities will probably maintain a heightened security presence near the border crossing over the coming days. Cross-border transport and shipping disruptions are likely for the duration of the border crossing closure. Further armed clashes cannot be ruled out.