Libya: Airstrike targets Rixos hotel in Tripoli May 24

Event

An airstrike reportedly hit the Rixos hotel - which was not being used as a hotel anymore - in the capital Tripoli in the early morning hours (local time) of Friday, May 24. The Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) accused Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army (LNA) forces of having carried out the attack. Lawmakers opposing Haftar's offensive have reportedly been holdings meetings in the former accommodation site. No casualties were reported following the attack.

A heightened security presence and local traffic disruptions are expected around the affected site over the coming days.

Context

The LNA launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4. Evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli began en masse on April 7. LNA and GNA airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. LNA officials supporting Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar have announced their intention to continue the advance on Tripoli and signaled possible conflict in central oil ports, such as Ras Lanuf and As-Sidr. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in Tripoli's southern suburbs.

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli district are advised to monitor developments, avoid the affected area, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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