Libya: LNA shellings kill four civilians in Tripoli May 9-10

Event

Dozens of rockets and missiles launched by the Libya National Army (LNA) on Saturday, May 9, and Sunday, May 10, killed four civilians and caused damage to Mitiga International Airport (MJI). The projectiles struck the residential districts of Abu Salim and Ben Gachir in the south of Tripoli. In the northwest, two planes, the runway, terminal building, and fuel tanks were damaged by rocket fire on Saturday and Sunday at Mitiga airport.

Local sources also reported an associated ground assault was launched on the frontlines in Mashrou and Yarmouk in the south of the capital on Saturday night (local time). The assault was repelled by the forces of the Government of National Accord (GNA). Unidentified armed men also reportedly stormed water supply facilities to the west of Tripoli and forced staff at electricity plants to cut off power, threatening the provision of basic utilities to the city.

Further attacks and a reduction in water and electricity supplies are expected in Tripoli over the near term.

Context

The Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4, 2019, and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli on April 7, 2019. LNA and Government of National Accord (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

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.