Tensions increase in Libya

22 Septebmer 2017 - RPS Partnership

We have just received news that tensions have increased in Tripoli ahead of a demonstration scheduled to take place on Sept. 25 in Martyrs' Square.

Contact us on  if you plan to travel to Libya or the North Africa region and why not come and join us on our next Hostile Environment Awareness Training (Hostile Environment Traininng) Monday 20 - Wednesday 22 November 2017.

The is the latest news from Libya

Former nominee for prime minister Basit Iget is calling for the rally to protest poor economic conditions and the perceived political failures of Prime Minister Fayez Serraj and leader of the self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) Khalifa Haftar. The Government of National Accord (GNA), led by Serraj, issued a statement Sept. 15 warning against holding unauthorized demonstrations in the capital, indicating the possibility that GNA-allied security forces could violently disperse the demonstrations.

Militias loyal to the leader of the rival National Salvation Government (NSG) have threatened to enter Tripoli on the same date, further adding to existing tensions.

Authorities may establish roadblocks and checkpoints to prevent outside militias from entering the capital. Expect increased security and localised traffic disruptions in greater Tripoli until Sept. 25.

Background and Analysis

The possibility of rival armed groups using the demonstration as a pretext to assert their authority is a greater threat to security than the protest itself. Three rival governments currently claim legitimacy in Libya - the UN-backed GNA, the Tobruk-based and Haftar-supported House of Representatives (HoR), and the National Salvation Government (NSG) led by Khalifa Ghwell. Each government is supported by disparate groups of well-armed militias, and clashes are common.

Small disputes between or within militias regarding political alignments, territory, or pay can easily erupt into violent conflict, even in Tripoli. Clashes frequently result in casualties and substantial property damage. In June, clashes between GNA- and NSG-allied forces on the outskirts of Tripoli lasted for four days, killing four people and injuring 21 others.

Summary

Avoid demonstrations. If clashes erupt, remain in a secure location until the situation stabilises. To the extent possible, avoid Martyr's Square and government buildings throughout Greater Tripoli.

Review contingency plans, and be prepared to shelter in place if heavy fighting erupts. Register and maintain contact with diplomatic missions responsible for Libya.

Contact i[email protected] if you need assistance or guidance.

Photos: RPS Partnership Hilandris quarter and ramdom Gadaffi graffitti

Source of information: PGI Intelligence