Libya: Protesters attack Lebanese embassy in Tripoli January 13

Event

Protesters attacked the Lebanese embassy in Tripoli on the evening (local time) of Sunday, January 13. The protesters reportedly failed to break into the embassy building and did not harm any embassy staff. Nevertheless, minor material damages were reported as youths removed a Lebanese flag from the embassy and raised a Libyan flag in its place. Similar demonstrations are possible outside the Lebanese embassy, associated locations, Lebanese businesses, or other public spaces in the city over the coming days.

Context

The incident was a response to a similar incident in Lebanon in which the Shi'a Amal Movement removed and trampled Libyan flags lining Beirut's Seaside Avenue, put up alongside other national flags as part of Arab League preparations for the Arab Economic Summit. Government of National Accord (GNA) Prime Minister Fayez Al-Sarraj has reportedly instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to cancel Libyan participation at the summit on January 19-20 over the Beirut incident, which follows recriminatory rhetoric over recent days concerning Libya's attendance.

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.