18 Jul 2019 | 06:19 PM UTC
Libya: Mitiga Airport (MJI) suspends operations after airstrike July 18
Initial reports suggest airstrike targets Mitiga International Airport (MJI) on July 18; flight disruptions expected over the coming hours as operations temporarily halted
Event
Initial reports suggest a Libyan National Army (LNA) airstrike has targeted a military control station at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) on Thursday night (local time), July 18. Further details were not immediately reported. Officials have halted flight operations at MJI until further notice.
Flight disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations) are possible at MJI over the coming hours.
Context
Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) was targeted by air and mortar strikes multiple times in June; however, the strikes did not damage the main runway or any civilian facilities and normal flight operations were typically restored within a few hours.
The Libyan National Army (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 area, 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.
