13 Apr 2018 | 07:36 PM UTC
Libya: Khalifa Haftar reportedly dies from health complications April 13
Media sources report that LNA leader Khalifa Haftar has died in Paris (France) from health complications April 13; situation remains unclear
Event
On Friday, April 13, media sources reported that Libyan National Army (LNA) leader Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar died in Paris (France) after suffering a stroke. Haftar was reportedly taken to a hospital in Paris after suffering the stroke on the night of April 10. As of 20:00 (local time) on Friday, the LNA has not confirmed Haftar’s condition.
Context
If the reports are confirmed, it is unclear who will take control of the LNA. The resulting power vacuum could result in internal competition between LNA leaders and present an opportunity for the group’s opponents, resulting in an escalation of fighting.
Libya has been divided by rival governments and factions with their own militias and political parties since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. The security situation in Libya remains precarious and the country is likely to remain unstable in the near-term amid the ongoing civil war.
Advice
Individuals in Libya are advised to monitor the situation and remain vigilant.
The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas (with appropriate security protocols in place), other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
