Libya: Armed groups move to consolidate Tripoli ceasefire September 9 /update 1

Event

On Sunday, September 9, armed groups fighting near Tripoli moved to consolidate a UN-brokered ceasefire initially negotiated on Tuesday, September 4. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) reported Sunday that the meeting held in Zawiya between representatives of the Government of National Accord (GNA) and armed groups near Tripoli, among others, resulted in commitments to extend the existing ceasefire, reposition armed groups and begin negotiations for their eventual withdrawal from the area, and allow regular military and police forces to secure the capital, among other measures.

Though the results of the meeting point to an apparent appetite among concerned parties to non-violently resolve the ongoing crisis, further clashes between the groups remain possible over the coming days.

Context

The UN initially brokered a ceasefire agreement on September 4 to put an end to hostilities ongoing around Tripoli since August 27, which have left dozens dead.

Libya has been divided into rival governments and factions with their own militias and political parties since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. In general, 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.