Libya: Reports of mortar fire targeting Mitiga Airport (MJI) July 7

Event

Local sources report officials have suspended operations at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) after nearby mortar impact in the evening hours (local time) of Sunday, July 7. The main civilian runway and passenger facilities reportedly remain unaffected by the strikes. No casualties were immediately reported. Airport officials have also reportedly temporarily rerouted flights to Misrata International Airport (MRA) as a precaution.

Further mortar strikes are possible in the near term in Tripoli, including at MJI. 

Context

LNA aircraft carried out an airstrike on MJI on June 6 but did not damage the main runway or any civilian facilities. The LNA launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4 and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli en masse on April 7. LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) has been targeted by air and mortar strikes multiple times between June 5-30; however, the strikes did not damage the main runway or any civilian facilities. The LNA launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4 and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli en masse on April 7. LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.

Advice

Individuals in Tripoli are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the affected areas, maintain safe and current evacuation plans, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

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