Libya: Suicide bomber attacks LNA forces in Derna June 20 /update 5

Event

A suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) detonated near a Libyan National Army (LNA) checkpoint in central Derna on Wednesday, June 20. According to an LNA spokesman, the attacker detonated their device after soldiers stopped the vehicle. At least four LNA fighters were killed in the blast. Media sources reported that clashes continued in the Al-Maghar neighborhood through June 20. Further fighting is likely in Derna as the LNA advances in the city.

Context

The LNA has captured most of Derna from the Derna Protection Force (DPF), an alliance of militias including members of the now-disbanded Mujahideen Shura Council of Derna. As of June 11, the LNA had taken control of around 75 percent of the city. Thousands of residents have fled Derna in recent weeks as severe food, water, and medicine shortages, as well as power outages, have affected the city.

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.