Libya: Ceasefire announced in Tripoli September 4 /update 4

Event

On Tuesday, September 4, the UN announced a ceasefire was signed to end fighting in Tripoli. According a spokesperson from the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), rival factions agreed to end hostilities and reopen Mitiga International Airport (MJI), which was closed on August 31 due to heavy fighting. Nevertheless, it remains unclear how the ceasefire will be enforced and how long it will be in effect. The decision comes after multiple clashes broke out on August 27 in and around the city, killing at least 61 people. A heightened security presence is expected in Tripoli in the near-term. Despite several ceasefires signed in recent days, further fighting remains possible in the Tripoli area.

Context

Clashes erupted around Tripoli on August 27 between the Seventh Brigade, the Tripoli Revolutionaries' Brigades, the Nawasi Brigade, and other militias. According to humanitarian officials, at least 61 people were killed in the fighting with dozens more suffering injuries. Libya's UN-backed government issued a state of emergency for Tripoli and its outskirts on September 2.

Libya has been divided into 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 there is little to no sign of a return to relative stability in the near-term. 

Advice

Individuals in Libya are advised to avoid the Tripoli area until the situation normalizes, as well as other active conflict areas and large public gatherings.

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.