Libya: Shelling in Tripoli leaves one wounded February 28 /update 1

Event

Shelling reportedly intensified in Tripoli on Friday, February 28, leaving at least one person wounded and causing significant material damage in the Libyan capital.

A total of approximately 55 missiles impacted Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) on Friday morning (local time), causing operations to be temporarily suspended and forcing travelers to evacuate. A nearby hospital was also evacuated as a result of the attack. According to local sources, another round of fire impacted MJI at 20:45, but airport operations had resumed as of 22:30 on Friday night.

Similar attacks are possible over the coming hours and days.

Context

The LNA launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4, 2019, and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli on April 7, 2019. LNA and GNA airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8, 2019. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.

Advice

Individuals with travel plans via MJI are advised to monitor the situation and contact their airline.

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas (with appropriate security protocols in place), other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.