Libya: Assault on El Sharara oilfield April 29

Event

The National Oil Cooperation (NOC) announced that an armed group launched an attack on El Sharara, Libya's largest oilfield located in Murzuq Desert, on Monday, April 29. Unknown gunmen reportedly fired a rocket at the oilfield's control station before being repelled by guards at the site. No casualties or damages have been reported as of Tuesday, April 30. The attack comes as the Libyan National Army (LNA) is launching an assault on southern Tripoli which is currently held by rival Government of National Accord (GNA) forces. A heightened security presence and local traffic disruptions are expected around the affected site over the coming days. Clashes between LNA- and GNA-aligned forces are expected to continue around  contested areas in the southern suburbs of Tripoli for several more days.

Context

The LNA launched an advance on Tripoli on April 4. Diplomatic missions and international companies have been drawing down non-essential staff on April 7 and LNA and GNA airstrikes have been reported in Tripoli since April 8.

The majority of recent fighting has been concentrated in Tripoli's southern suburbs with LNA advances having recently been slowed; however, the a LNA spokesperson announced the establishment of new offensive fronts in Tripoli on April 22, without giving further details. The area around Tripoli International Airport (TIP) is reportedly the target of fresh fighting between the LNA and GNA as of April 23.

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli are advised to monitor situational developments, avoid areas affected by the fighting, and refrain from nonessential movement within the city.

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.