Libya: Fighting intensifies around Derna /update 3

Event

Clashes between the Khalifa Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) and the Derna Protection Force (DPF), an alliance of militias including members of the now-disbanded Mujahideen Shura Council of Derna, have escalated in recent days in Derna. According to a report from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Thursday, May 31, severe food, water, and medicine shortages have affected the city. Derna's more than 120,000 residents have reportedly suffered power outages and public water supply shortages due to airstrikes and shelling of residential zones; intense ground clashes have also been reported. Electricity was restored to the city early on May 31 (local time), according to local residents.

After clashes on Wednesday, May 30, the LNA had assumed control over most entry points at the western edges of Derna, as well as the Al-Fatayih Industrial Zone and the hills overlooking Bab Tobruk district. Dozens of LNA and DPF fighters have been killed in the fighting in recent weeks. Additional heavy clashes are expected in Derna in the coming weeks, as well as recurrent power outages and continuing shortages of food, water, medicine, and basic goods.

Context

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 avoid the Derna area, monitor the situation, and remain vigilant for potential militant activity.

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.