Libya: Clashes continue in Tripoli September 17 as Mitiga Airport closed /update 4

Event

Clashes between rival militias are continuing in Tripoli as of the evening (local time) of Monday, September 17, as Mitiga International Airport (MJI) remains closed. According to local sources, the clashes are ongoing in the Al-Hadba area, as well as in the Brega Terminal area along Airport Road. MJI was reportedly closed on Monday after the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) and the RADA Special Deterrence Forces (RDF) agreed to hand over control of the airport to another militia and due to the ongoing clashes in Tripoli. Flights to and from MJI have been diverted to Misrata International Airport (MRA).

It is unclear when the fighting between the rival militia groups will abate and when MJI will reopen to commercial flights. Additional clashes are expected in Tripoli in the coming hours and days.

Context

The recent escalation of violence in Tripoli follows several days of a tenuous ceasefire between local armed groups, initially brokered by the UN on September 4, which aimed to put an end to hostilities ongoing around Tripoli since August 27.

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 are advised to avoid the Tripoli area until the situation normalizes.

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.