Libya: Increasing tensions lead to clashes in Tripoli

Event

Tensions have been on the rise in Tripoli since May 8 and clashes have been reported throughout the city. On May 9, the Almosheer area witnessed armed clashes between the Nawasay Brigade and unknown gunmen.

Several explosions were reported in the evening between May 12 and May 13, mainly targeting GNA (Government of National Accord)-aligned militias, but the capital appeared relatively calm on Sunday, May 14. Nevertheless, further clashes are to be expected, especially in the southern part of Tripoli, as the GNC (General National Congress) looks to reclaim the territory it lost to GNA-aligned militias in March.

Context

These recent developments, indicating an increasingly tense situation in Tripoli in recent days, follow a relative calm that prevailed following the March ouster of GNC-aligned militias by those supporting the GNA. A recent series of meetings between the UN-backed GNA and the Libyan National Army (LNA) of eastern strongman Khalifa Haftar has left the GNC worried that it is growing increasingly isolated and is at risk of political irrelevancy. In addition, the GNC’s supporters are opposed to political negotiations that include reconciliation with Haftar, regarded by many of them as little more than a criminal. For these reasons, the GNC is unwilling to quietly accept the political maneuvers taking place without it, and should be counted upon to attempt to derail the still largely nominal political progress made in working towards a rapprochement between eastern and western Libya. This is most likely to take the form of militia clashes in and around the capital, especially its southern reaches and the coastal roads to its west and east.

Advice

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.