Libya: Further clashes in Tripoli Sep. 18

Event

As of 09:20 on Tuesday, September 18 (local time), clashes continue between Salah Badi and Ghneiwa forces on Pepsi Cola Road. Sources indicate that forces loyal to Saleh Badi advanced beyond the Third Ring Road. Further clashes are reportedly taking place between the 7th (Kani) Brigade and the Tripoli Revolutionaries Brigade . Mitiga International Airport (MJI) remains closed. Fighting has caused damage to electricity infrastructure and power outages have been reported in southern and western parts of the city. 

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 tensions took place amid a deadline set by tribal leaders and members of the Libyan National Army (LNA) in Tarhuna requesting armed militias in Tripoli stand down by September 17 or face military action. Local sources have observed an increased LNA presence in the south of Tripoli. These clashes follow 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.

MJI was closed on September 17 after the UN-backed Government of National Accord and the RADA Special Deterrence Forces (RDF) agreed to hand over control of the airport to another militia. Flights to and from MJI have been diverted to Misrata International Airport (MRA).

Advice

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.