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Armed Conflicts In Africa
Libyan Civil War:
A Timeline Of Atrocities
Pre – Crisis Timeline: The Fall of Gadaffi (15 February – 19 November 2011)
15/16 February 2011: Violent protests break out in Benghazi – Inspired by the Arab Spring, protesters took to the streets of Benghazi to protest Gaddafi’s rule, though initially began by demoing Fethi Tarbel’s release. Fethi Tarbel is an activist most known for his work with families of the victims of a 1996 massacre at the notorious Abu Salim prison where more than 1000 prisoners are believed to have been executed. It is not surprising that the anti-Gaddafi protest since the area has traditionally distrusted Gaddafi. The protests spread to the towns of Bayda, Ajdaboya, Ziwiya and Derna with minor protests in the capital of Tripoli. By 20th February, 100 people are reported killed in four days of demonstrations in Benghazi. Protesters allege that the Libyan army fired live bullets into unarmed crowds of protesters. Human Right Watch said that the estimates being reported are conservative. With the protests intensifying, foreign journalists have been banned from entering the country and the internet service shut off for long periods to lessen the spread of information about what is happening in Libya. Al-Jazeera, who already had offices in the country, reports that the government had jammed signals at their offices. Col Gaddafi has not made any comment on the escalating violence while growing condemnation from Western leaders is mounting.
25 February 2011: Anti-Libyan government militia takes over Misrata city – An anti-Gaddafi militia, captures Misrata, a city in northwestern Libya and evicted force loyal to Gaddafi from the city. The militia was able to capture the city within four hours. The toppling of the Gaddafi forces led to street celebrations according to witnesses. Earlier in the week, an unspecified number of government forces and foreign mercenaries were killed after they stormed protesters near the city’s airport.
26- 28 February 2011: UNSC and EU Parliament impose sanctions on Gaddafi’s government and his family members – In a unanimous vote on 26 February, the UNSC agrees to impose sanctions against Libyan authorities. They also agreed to impose an arms embargo and freezing the assets of its leaders and several members of the Gaddafi family. Additionally, the council imposed a travel ban on Gaddafi and other senior figures of his administration, as well as some family members and relatives. On 28 February, the European Union introduced economic sanctions against Libya which went in effect immediately. The EU sanctions package includes an arms embargo, travel ban on Gaddafi and his closest advisors.
5 March 2011: The Transitional National Council (TNC) announces itself as the sole representative for Libya – The Transitional National Council (TNC), which was formed on 27 February 2011 in Benghazi, announces itself as the sole representative for Libya. The council is composed of politicians, tribal leaders, former military officers, academics and the business community. Between the announcement and July, several major powers recognise TNC as the sole representative of the Libyan people. On March 26 2011, Qatar became the second country and the first Arab country to recognise the Transitional National Council (TNC) as the sole representative of the Libyan people. The recognition came at a time where African and Arab countries alike are calling for Gaddafi to step away from his position. Additionally, the recognition came when French and British air forces conducted airstrikes against Gaddafi which Gaddafi officials claim have killed 114 Libyans. France recognised TNC on 10 March, Italy on 4th April and the US on 15th The Italian Foreign Minister, during the announcement, added that Gaddafi’s proposal to bring about the end of the Libyan Crisis was not credible. US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton, said that the TNC offered important assurances including, the promise to pursue a process of democratic reform that is inclusive both geographically and politically and to uphold Libya’s international obligations. On 23 January 2012, Abdul Hafiz Ghoga, the Deputy Head of National Transitional Council (NTC), resigned after facing angry protesters in Benghazi. He is accused of opportunism since he defected from Gaddafi’s side too late. The protesters in Benghazi were not only protesting him, but the entire NTC’s inability to extend their power to Benghazi and protect them, as well as lack of transparency in the government. For more information, refer to the Transitional National Council section on Key Actors
15 March 2011: General Khalifa Haftar returns to Libya follow exile – Following a 22-year exile in the United States, General Khalifa returns to Libya to lead a rebel army in Eastern Libya. For more information, refer to General Khalifa section on Key Actors
19 March 2011: Gaddafi declares ceasefire in Libya, but fighting continues – The Gaddafi government declares an immediate ceasefire against all-democracy protesters through a televised statement by the Libyan Foreign minister, Moussa Koussa. Regardless of the speech, government forces were moving forward in its operations in the eastern city of Benghazi. In Misurata, the pro-government militia fired on the rebel-held city, claiming the lives of at least 25 people.
30 March 2011: Libyan Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa Defects and flees to United Kingdom – Libyan Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa Defects and flees to the United Kingdom through Tunisia. Koussa’s defection is a big blow to Gaddafi’s regime since he was one of his closest allies.
10– 11 April 2011: African Union proposes a roadmap to end conflict in Libya – The African Union proposed a roadmap to end the conflict in Libya. The road map contained a five-point plan which called for dialogue between the two sides, an inclusive transitional period, and political reforms which “meet the aspirations of the Libyan people.” The roadmap also called for an immediate ceasefire. Gaddafi accepted the proposed transitional road map. The Libyan opposition, the Transitional National Council, rejected the proposal, adding that any proposal that does not meet its vital demand will not be accepted. They demanded that Gaddafi step down from power. The international community stated their reservations about the AU proposal. The UK foreign secretary William Hague said that any ceasefire agreement must meet the terms of the UN resolution in full while Italian Foreign Minister, Franco Frattini, added that he believed that it’s unlikely that Gaddafi would respect any ceasefire.
30 April 2011: NATO airstrikes target Gaddafi’s family members – Gaddafi’s government issued a statement saying that he had survived an airstrike in Tripoli conducted by NATO. Though he survived, one of his sons, Seif al-Arab Muammar el-Qaddafi, was killed, along with his three grandchildren who are believed to less than 12 years old. In a news conference, the government’s spokesperson said that the airstrikes are illegal and are direct operations to assassinate the leader of Libya. This NATO airstrike is the second in seven days targeting immediate family members of Gaddafi. NATO has denied the allegations from the government that the airstrikes intend to kill Gaddafi, adding that “all NATO targets are military in nature and have been linked to Gaddafi regime’s systematic attack on the Libyan population and populated areas.”
27 June 2011: ICC issues arrest warrants for Gaddafi, Saif al-Islam and his intelligence chief Abdullahi Sunessi – The ICC issues arrest warrants for Gaddafi, his son Saif al-Islam and his intelligence chief Abdullahi Sunessi. They are charged with crimes against humanity committed against opponents of his regime. The UNSC voted unanimously on February 26 to refer the Libyan crisis to the ICC which led to the lead prosecutor Moreno Ocampo to launch a formal investigation days later.
21 August 2011: Rebels enter Tripoli with little resistance – Rebel factions marched into Tripoli and arrested two of his sons. Citizens of the capital city celebrated this move. They advanced to the Green Square, a space associated with pro-Gaddafi rallies, and removed posters of the Libyan leader. The rebel leadership announced that the elite presidential guard has defected and surrendered to them. Officials within the Gaddafi administration maintain that the fight was not over, adding that the two sides were still engaging in fighting.
15 September – 20 October 2011: Libyan Rebels begin operation to take Sirte from Gaddafi troops and loyalists – The Libyan rebels, under the General Khalifa’s National Liberation Army (NLA), launch an operation to take Sirte, one of the last major strongholds loyal to Gaddafi. Sirte is one of Gaddafi’s stronghold since it is his birth home and was hiding out there since the protests began. Heavy fighting ensued immediately upon the NLA had entered the city limits. The rebels started taking major installations including the airport, and government buildings. NATO airstrikes supported the rebel offensive. On 20th October, the NLA announced their victory and claimed that the city of Sirte is under their control. A few days later, the NTC announced that Libya has officially been liberated and under their control.
16 September 2011: UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) is formed – For more information, refer to the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in the Key Actors section
20 – 24 October 2011: Muammar Gaddafi is deposed and killed – Muammar Gaddafi came to power in 1969 following a successful coup against King Idris. He came to power with the desire to create a pan-Arab state governed under state-sponsored socialism and the nationalisation of all resources. In his more than the four-decade rule of Libya, he was always in constant struggle with the Western powers, who considered him a terrorist, especially after the Lockerbie bombing. The Lockerbie bombing was the shooting down of a commercial airliner over the Scottish town of Lockerbie under the alleged direction of Gaddafi. His death came on the last day of the Sirte offensive by the National Liberation Army (NLA) to capture one of Gaddafi’s stronghold. During the final hours of the assault, while he attempted to escape the area, he was captured by rebels. Based on cell phone footage, Gaddafi was alive when he was captured. The NTC announced his death hours later. Cell phone footage shows that he was beaten and shot on the head by rebels who then dragged his lifeless body through the streets as a sign of victory. The NTC vowed to launch an investigation to Gaddafi’s death, but no such report was ever published. The death of Gaddafi was celebrated with mass celebrations in Sirte, Tripoli and Benghazi. His death, as some of the residents explained, is a good sign and can usher in a new era. Gaddafi is buried in a secret location in the desert.
24 October 2011: Human Rights Watch report that the rebels are executing Gaddafi loyalists in Sirte – In a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report, they claim that a week after the fall of Sirte to the insurgents, the National Liberation Army (NLA), executed loyalist prisoners and soldiers to former president Gaddafi. Allegedly no-one was spared, children, men and women. According to the reports, residents have been finding decomposing bodies throughout the city. HRW reports at least 267 executed loyalists have been found across the city while mass graves outside the city with at least 300 bodies have also been discovered.
1 November 2011: Libya names Interim Prime Minister – Abdurrahim El Keib has been named as the new interim prime minister after Mahmoud Jibril stepped down. El- Keib is expected to form a new cabinet within the next two weeks.
18 November 2011: NATO announces end of Libya mission – NATO formally announced the end of its military mission in Libya after a meeting with member states in Brussels. The decision is influenced by the UNSC decision to end the mandate that authorised military action in Libya. Since their mission started seven months prior, they bombed over 6000 targets.
19 November 2011: Gaddafi’s son arrested – Saif al-Islam, Gaddafi’s son, was arrested in Ubari, in the south of the country. Zintan rebel fighters captured him. The Prime Minister, who hailed the militants, said he is confident that the fighters will take care of Saif al-Islam until he gets “proper justice” and a fair trial at a later date. The Zintan fighters announced that they will only hand over Gaddafi’s son once there is a proper government in place.
17 December 2011: UN, US and UK lifts bank sanctions
UNSC voted to unfreeze assets of Libya’s central bank which had been in the control of Gaddafi. Approximately $40 billion in cash and assets were frozen. The US also vowed to unfreeze another $30 billion in assets of the Central Bank and its subsidiaries, the Libyan Foreign Bank. The UK followed in the footsteps of the US and UN and announced they would unfreeze the $10 billion held in Britain.
6 July 2012: Trial of Gaddafi Intelligence chief begins
Trial of Gaddafi Intelligence Chief, Buzeid Dorda, began in Tripoli. He, who was arrested in the capital on September 2011, is charged with conspiring to kill civilians, providing weapons for the purpose of killing civilians, conspiring to provoke civil war, denying people the right to protest, unlawful detention and abuse of authority. This case will be a testament to what the Libyan judiciary can do despite their limited capacity during the conflict.
7 August 2012: National Transitional Council hands over to General National Congress
National Transitional Council (NTC) hands over to the General National Congress (GNC), the new assembly that will govern Libya. This is seen as the first peaceful transition of power in over 40 years. The GNC is a 200-member legislative assembly. The assembly was elected on July 7 after it was postponed for technical and logistical issues.
Militants belonging to the Ansar al-Sharia overran the US consulate in Benghazi, killing Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans. The attack was specifically designed to be on the anniversary of 9/11. Following the attack, the Libyan army has been raiding several militia outposts operating in Tripoli and its immediate outskirts specifically targeting those groups that ally to the Ansar al-Sharia. Additionally, four suspects were arrested by Libyan security forces. In Benghazi, protesters seize the headquarters of the group in the city, forcing them to leave the city. The protesters are against the rising influence of al-Qaida in Benghazi. One of the suspected orchestrators, Karim Ahmed Essam el-Azizi, was killed in a raid in Cairo a month after the attack.
15 – 30 October 2012: Libyan government struggles to operate
By October 15, Ali Zeidan, a career diplomat and long-time Gaddafi critic, became the new prime minister, a week after the last prime minister, Mustafa Abushagur was dismissed. He was dismissed after his choice of ministers was protested by both the assembly and the citizens. Protesters stormed the national assembly building, forcing the assembly to cancel the vote on a proposed coalition government, at the end of the month.
In the security front, the Libyan army has vowed to dissolve rogue militia operating within Tripoli. To operate within the city, a militia needs to come under the authority of the state. Any non-sanctioned militia operating checkpoints will be prosecuted.
17 October 2012: Human Rights Watch report detail mass murder after Gaddafi’s death
A new Human Rights Watch (HRW) report details mass murder by anti-Gaddafi militias since 2011. The report implicates Misrata-based militias who captured and disarmed members of Gaddafi’s convoy and subjected them to brutal beatings. Following the dictator’s demise, at least 66 of his supporters were executed. Their evidence comes from video footage that shows the abuse and torture described in the report.
26 October 2012: Gaddafi loyalist lose the last stronghold to Libyan forces
Bani Walid, the last stronghold belonging to Gaddafi loyalist, was captured by government troops. The year-long operation is essential for the government as they try to reimpose their authority over the country who face constant threats from tribes and armed militias. Though the government claims victory, the situation remains tense.
14 May 2013: Explosion outside major hospital in Benghazi kills 3
A suspected car bomb exploded outside a major hospital in Benghazi killing 3 and wounding 14. Senior ministers said that there is a possibility that the explosion was accidental rather than a bomb. The car that blew up was carrying explosive materials used in making anti-tank mines.
May 2013: Isolation law banning all Gaddafi-era officials from office passes
The General National Congress (GNC) passed the isolation law which bans all Gaddafi-era officials from ever running for office. This was seen as a victory for the government since they were able to distance themselves from the atrocities from the previous government and holding them accountable for their mistakes.
July – November 2013: Rise in Kidnappings in Libya
There has been an increase of kidnapping in Libya, targeting high profile officials. On July 29, unknown militia attempted to assassinate Libyan navy officials with a car bomb. On 10 October, Prime Minister Ali Zeidan was freed several hours after being kidnapped by a rebel group operating in Tripoli. The rebel group, Libyan Revolutionary Operations Chambers, said the prime minister is corrupt, citing him issuing cheques to military guards who had been blocking oil refineries in eastern Libya. Additionally, the group said that the ‘arrest’ was due to the comments by US Secretary of State’s comments that Libya played a role in the arrest of Abu Anas al-Liby, an al-Qaida leader. On 18 November, Military governor of Benghazi escaped an assassination attempt when his convoy was attacked, killing one person and seriously wounding another in his entourage. The deputy intelligence chief was also reported to be kidnapped on the same day in Tripoli.
25 October 2013: East Libya declares self-government
Province leaders announce a regional government named Barqa or Cyrenaica to challenge weak central authority in Tripoli who they believe have failed to unite the country. One of the tribal leaders that approve the move is the head of petroleum protection force in the region whose forces guard the biggest ports Ras Lanuf and es Sider. The leader of the new self-declared government is Prime Minister Abd-Rabbo al-Barassi, an air force commander, who will govern four provinces in eastern Libya, Benghazi, Tobruk, Ajdabiya and Jebel Akhdar.
17 November 2013: Libya declares state of emergency in Tripoli
Libyan PM declared a 48-hour state of emergency in Tripoli following fresh clashes between warring factions and militias. Two days before the declaration, at least 40 people were killed by gunmen while protesting the dissolution of unlawful armed groups.
23 December 2013: Libya probes deadly army checkpoint bombing
Libyan government announced three days of mourning after a suicide bombing killed 13 soldiers and cancellation of Independence Day celebration. The explosion took place at a checkpoint east of Benghazi which had received several threats since four people were arrested in November for carrying weapons, explosives, money and hitlist. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
5 February 2014: playground bomb wound children in Benghazi
A bomb was thrown over the school wall while children were playing at the playground of a primary school in Benghazi, 12 children were injured, 2 critically, by the attack. There was no immediate claim for the attack
20 February 2014: Libya votes for a panel to draft new constitution
1 million Libyans took to the polls to elect a panel to draft a new constitution. The 60-member committee will be given at least 120 days to drafter a new charter to lead Libya. To ensure a smooth voting process, the Interior Minister deployed more than 40,000 police to the 1500 polling station. The police were ineffective in some of the polling stations due to bombs and overnight aerial assaults. Additionally, the police were also attacked by unidentified gunmen. The attacks are not surprising since two Libyan militias, the Sawaiq and Qaqa, called on the parliament to hand over power two days before the vote.
15 April 2014: Jordanian Ambassador abducted in Libya
Jordanian Ambassador, Fawaz al-Aitan, kidnapped in Tripoli by masked armed men who shot at his car, wounding his driver. The gunmen demanded the release of Mohamed Dersi, a Libyan jailed for life in 2007 for plotting to blow up the main Jordanian airport. The latest kidnapping is part of a series of abductions of key officials from the capital city. Earlier in the year, five Egyptian diplomats, secretary of Tunisia Ambassador to Libya and a South Korean trade official were kidnapped.
29 April 2014: Gunmen attack Libya’s parliament
Several people wounded when armed men fired at parliamentarians during a special assembly session to elect a new prime minister. It’s unclear who is responsible for the attack or what is the motive of the attack, according to one of the MPs. The attack came a month and a half after the parliament, the General National Congress (GNC), voted to oust Prime Minister Ali Zeidan. Abdullah al-Thinni, who voted to be interim prime minister after Zeidan’s dismissal, resigned from his position two weeks before the attack citing threat to his life and his family. When the gunmen attacked the parliament, the MPs were voting between Ahmed Maetig, a well-known businessman and Omar al-Hassi, a figure that has good connections with the Islamist groups in the city.
May – October 2014: Battle for Benghazi
Various armed groups, including extremist groups, are fighting for control of Benghazi. The city of Benghazi began as a stronghold for General Khalifa, but as time went on, small pockets of the city were controlled by armed militias and ISIS-allied groups. Thus far, fighting is limited between General Khalifa- allied forces and other rebel and Islamist groups. General Khalifa vowed to ‘liberate’ Benghazi of what he calls ‘terrorists’ in operation dubbed “Operation Dignity.” Like in Tripoli, the armed groups aim to control critical installations such as the airport, oil pipelines, airbases, and government buildings. General Khalifa’s campaign was not too successful as armed groups, by the end of July, were controlling the majority of the major installations in the city while the General only controlled the airport. Also, General Khalifa urged Turkey and Qatar nationals to leave Benghazi, saying that both countries are supporting armed groups in the city. Turkey evacuated its citizens in the city, as well as in Tripoli, out of fear of retaliation.
Since June, fighting within Benghazi has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. Many have died as a result of an air raid conducted by forces loyal to General Khalifa. To tip the favours to their sides, the rebel and Islamist groups have turned to suicide bombings, targeting soldiers and militias loyal to General Khalifa. Most of the blasts have managed to kill more than 20 soldiers and militants at a go. Clashes have also driven an estimated 280,000 people out of their homes, with at least 100,000 heading towards Tripoli. The diplomatic community has been calling for an immediate end to the unrest but with no success. Egypt and UAE are being accused of funding various factions with the city.
19 May 2014: Gunmen attack the Libyan parliament
Gunmen once again attack the Libyan parliament, this time demanding the suspension of congress and hand over of power. The gunmen identified themselves as loyalists to General Khalifa. Heavy fighting between the gunmen and forces loyal to the government ensued. As the fighting continued, a statement on behalf of General Khalifa was read on television, saying that the parliament should stop their activities. The statement added that the parliament should hand over power to a 60-member body elected to rewrite the Libyan constitution. Days after the announcement, Zintan fighters, rebel fighters allied to General Khalifa, increased the number of militants to Tripoli and began an offensive against the Tripoli government.
June – October 2014: Battle for Tripoli and UN talks in Tripoli
Various groups, including extremist groups, are fighting for control of Tripoli. Armed groups fighting in Tripoli include the Zintan fighters, who are allied to General Khalifa, and Libya Dawn, an alliance of several Islamist armed groups. One of the critical installations that each group is interested in obtaining is the Tripoli International Airport. For this reason, the airport is frequently targeted by mortar fire and rockets for several hours a day. Zintan fighters had had firm control of the airport for three years before the battle for Tripoli began. Fighting for the airport has led to severe damage to the airport, as well as the death of at least 11 civilians. By October, Libya Dawn, a militia from Misrata in western Libya, controlled large parts of Tripoli. Casualties have increased significantly as the battle for Tripoli continued. The fighting has forced hundreds of thousands of Libyans to flee from Tripoli. In just the first three weeks of October, the UN reported that over 100,000 had been displaced and another 150,000 are attempting to flee the country as migrant workers and refugees.
The battle for Tripoli has led to many countries, as well as the UN, to vacate their staff from the city due to the increased instability. After the US abandoned their embassy in Tripoli, militias stormed the embassy as a sign of victory. Though the UN has asked their staff to vacate the city, they have stepped up their efforts to end the conflict. The UN-brokered talks aim to bridge the gap between warring groups that support the two rival governments and parliaments following the June election. Libya Dawn, as the strongest militia operating in Tripoli, rejected UN talks unless its opponents are all disarmed, and their leaders arrested. Without the cooperation of Libya Dawn in the UN-brokered talks, it’s unlikely that fighting will stop, let alone the ceasefire to be obeyed.
18 June 2014: US captures Benghazi attack key suspect
President Obama announced the capture of Abu Khatallah, a key suspected linked to the deadly attack on US consulate in 2012 that killed the US ambassador.
29 November 2017: Federal Jury clears Libyan man over US diplomatic compound in Benghazi – Ahmed Abu Khatallah, a Libyan man, has been cleared of the most serious charges in connection with the deadly attack on a US diplomatic compound in Libya’s Benghazi attack. He, who has been awaiting trial since 2014 following his capture, was charged with orchestrating the September 11, 2012 attack that killed the US Ambassador to Libya and three other Americans. He was acquitted of 14 charges but convicted on four terrorism-related charges. His trial began on October 2nd,
25 June – 25 July 2014: Parliamentary election period in Libya
Following the change in the transitional constitution, Libya is set to hold elections on 25 June in 1600 voting stations around the country. The 25 June election is the third legislative election since the fall of Gaddafi in 2011. Libyans are choosing from the 1628 candidates contesting for 200 seats in parliament or the House of Representative (HoR). The HoR is meant to replace the General National Congress which has become ineffective due to a political deadlock within the parliament. 42% of the 1.5 million registered voters turned out for the election, according to the election commission. The number of registered voters is less than half of the number of Libyans who registered to vote in 2012. Many citizens chose not to register, viewing the process as a waste of time. Rebel and armed groups brought an added problem during the election period since, despite calls for a ceasefire, gunfire could be heard near polling stations. On 22 July, the parliamentary election results were announced, with the election board naming only 188 out of the 200 members. The 12 members would be announced later since there was a delay from some of the electoral districts due to fighting. The parliament had an increase of nationalist and Muslim Brotherhood – leaning members.
23 August – September 2014: Aftermath of the election, government moves to Tobruk
Prime Minister Abdullah Al-Thinni’s government and the House of Representative (HoR) was forced out of Tripoli by Libya Dawn, an Islamist group originally from Misrata in western Libya. The government, henceforth, relocated to Tobruk. Following the expulsion from Tripoli, al-Thinni has been on a quest to rebuild his government but with little success due to a deadlock with the parliament who has been rejecting his suggestions for a new cabinet.
- Meanwhile, A rival government remained in Tripoli composed of the members of the previous parliament, also known as the General National Congress (GNC), who are supported by Libya Dawn. The GNC elected Islamist-backed Omar al-Hassi as the Prime Minister of the Tripoli-based government and replaced the HoR with a new parliament.
26 June 2014: Libyan human rights activist gunned down
Human rights activist Salwa Bugaighis was gunned down in Benghazi. Witnesses say that the assailants wore military uniforms when they attacked her at her home. She was pronounced dead that the hospital.
27 August 2014: Pentagon says that Egypt and the UAE have been conducting secret airstrikes in Libya
Pentagon believes that Egypt and UAE have been conducting covert airstrikes in Libya. The first alleged airstrike took place the weekend of 21st This accusation comes from the alliance of Islamist and Misrata militias, i.e. Libyan Dawn Forces. Egypt and UAE have categorically denied the reports. Egypt added that they are “not involved in any military activity and does not have any military presence on Libyan territory.”
18 September 2014: Libyan factions reject military intervention
In a meeting in Madrid, representatives of the Tobruk government, as well as representatives of 15 neighbouring nations, have unanimously rejected the idea of military intervention to restore stability to Libya.
This decision comes at a time when information about foreign countries either supporting armed groups or conducting independent airstrikes in Libya. Sudan military plane was intercepted earlier in the month loaded with ammunition in Libyan airspace. The Sudanese government response to the incident was that they were carrying equipment for a joint Libyan-Sudanese state border force. The Libyan government believes that the equipment and ammunition were meant to arm Islamist rebel groups in Kufra, a border town with Sudan. Few weeks before this incident, the Pentagon revealed that Egypt and UAE are conducting secret airstrikes in Libya.
2 November 2014: fighters loyal to the UN-backed government capture territory in Benghazi
Pro UN-backed government militias recapture territory in Benghazi, which is the stronghold for General Khalifa. The territory recovered belonged to Ansar al-Sharia, a radical extremist group. During the two weeks offensive, at least 254 people have been killed, according to medical sources in the city.
7 November 2014: Libyan supreme court rules elected parliament and government illegal
Libya’s supreme court rules that the general election held in June were unconstitutional, therefore, the country’s parliament and the government should be dissolved. The court ruled that the march amendment to the transitional constitution that allowed the June election to take place was illegal. The dispute about the June election resulted in two rival government/parliaments, the Tripoli and Tobruk based governments. Powerful militias from the western Libyan city of Misrata deployed their fighters to control part of Tripoli and supported the Tripoli-based government.
10 December 2014: ICC refers Libya to UN over Gaddafi’s Son
ICC referred Libya to the UNSC for not handing over Saif al-Islam, Gaddafi’s son for trial. ICC insists that he should stand trial on charges relating to the repression of the 2011 uprising that toppled his father. Gaddafi is being held by a militia in Zintan who have refused to hand him over to the Tripoli-based government due to their lack of trust.
6 January 2015: US says ISIS has training camps in Eastern Libya
AFRICOM Commander, in a briefing for reporters, said that ISIS has set up training camps in eastern Libya. The training camps are “mainly about people coming for training and logistic support right now.” He continued to say that they currently don’t know about the command and control network.
23 January 2015: Ansar al-Sharia leader dies months after ambush
Mohamed al-Zahawi, the leader of Ansar al-Sharia armed group, died of wounds he sustained while fighting pro-government troops several months ago. His death comes two months after the UNSC added the group, its decentralised groups in Benghazi, and Derna, to its list of terrorist groups
For more information, refer to Ansar al-Sharia section in Key Actors
3 February 2015: Tobruk-based government drops law barring Gaddafi officials from government office
The Tobruk-based government dropped the law barring Gaddafi officials from holding government positions. The law was initially passed in May 2013 when the Tobruk HoR was part of the General National Congress (GNC). The law specifically stated that the officials could not hold leadership roles in country’s state firms like the national oil corporation, its universities and judicial bodies.
17 February 2015: Egyptian airstrikes in Derna kill 7 civilians
At least seven civilians, including 3 children, were killed in Egyptian airstrikes in Derna. The airstrikes come after IS-Libya claimed responsibility for kidnapping and beheading of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians.
21 February 2015: IS-Libya claims responsibility for deadly Libya blasts
IS-Libya claims responsibility for deadly attacks in Quba in an apparent retaliatory attack against Egypt’s airstrikes. IS-Libya conducted two attacks, one where an attacker drove an explosives-packed ambulance into a petrol station while motorists were lining up. Twin suicide bombers detonated vehicles next to the house of the parliament speaker and security headquarters. The attacks killed 45 and injured at least 70.
General Khalifa has been sworn in as Libya’s army chief by the UN-recognized House of Representatives (HoR) based in Tobruk. As he was sworn in by the Tobruk based Prime Minister, Abdullahi al-Thinni, General Khalifa pledged to continue to fight against ‘terrorism’. Analysts are concerned that the move by the Tobruk government can escalate the tension between the Tripoli and Tobruk governments.
18 March 2015: IS-Libya attempt to spread its reach outside Sirte and Derna, attacks Misrata
- IS-Libya clashed with an armed group loyal to the Islamist ‘Libya Dawn’ alliance in the city of Misrata. The IS-Libya erected checkpoints on the highway to oil-rich Sidra when deadly fighting between the two sides ensued. IS-Libya dispatched an estimated 500 fighters to the city to proceed with the expansion of their territory. IS-Libya has also been increasing the number of attacks in the city.
- Meanwhile, in Derna, IS-Libya’s territorial sovereignty is being challenged by General Khalifa’s forces. Egyptian and Libyan airstrikes have also targeted the city. In the last quarter of 2014, the Islamic Youth Shura Council, operating in Derna, pledged their allegiance to ISIS, which strengthened their foothold in the city. Human Rights Watch indicated that many of the fighters fighting in Derna are foreigners from Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Egypt.
- 21 March 2015: General Khalifa launches offensive to “liberate” Tripoli
- General Khalifa announced his forces have launched an offensive to ‘liberate’ Tripoli. The announcement comes just weeks after the Tobruk based government appointed the General as the head of the military. His troops have been deployed to southern Tripoli in an attempt to seize control of the city. The UN envoy to Libya, Bernardino Leon, condemned the attack, saying “if it is a major operation, then it will clearly have an impact on the dialogue.”
- 25 March 2015: IS-Libya claims suicide attack in Benghazi
- IS-Libya claims suicide bombing that killed seven in Benghazi. A VBIED drove into an army checkpoint in the Lithi district of Benghazi, killing five soldiers and two civilians. The attack took place as a representative of the Tripoli and Tobruk based government were holding a meeting to discuss the six-point proposal by the UN aimed at ending the conflict. The Tripoli government conducted airstrikes on suspected IS-L positions. Before the attack, there has been an escalation of attacks between General Khalifa’s forces and IS-Libya fighters.
- April – July 2015: UN-backed government in Tripoli push to capture Benghazi
- The UN-backed government in Tripoli launched offensives to retake the eastern city of Benghazi from various factions. The Tripoli government is supported by Majlis al-Shura, an umbrella of powerful armed groups in Tripoli.
- As the forces loyal to Tripoli-based government pushes through Benghazi, Al-Shura council fighters, which the al-Qaida allied group Ansar al-Sharia are part off, and General Khalifa’s forces have been heavily fighting.
- 27 May 2015: Tobruk-based Prime Minister says escaped assassination attempt
- Abdullah al-Thinni, the Tobruk-based Prime Minister, under the House of Representatives, says he survived an assassination attempt after gunmen opened fire as he left a parliamentary session. Before the assassination attempt, protesters had gathered at the seat of parliament at a naval base in the city, to demonstrate the inefficiencies related to the government.
- 28 July 2015: Gaddafi’s son sentenced to death
- A court in Libya has sentenced Saif al-Islam, the son of Gaddafi, to death by firing squad. He was convicted in absentia, alongside eight other senior members of the former regime. They were found guilty of war crimes and suppressing peaceful protest during the revolution. Saif al-Islam has been held by former rebel group in Zintan that opposes the Tripoli government. The rebel group refused to hand him over since they do not trust the Tripoli government.
- 9 October 2015: UN authorises EU naval operations to seize and dispose of vessels operated by human traffickers.
- The UNSC has approved EU naval operations to seize and dispose of vessels operated by human traffickers. Additionally, six EU warship which will be patrolling the international waters will catch and arrest human traffickers as a way to curb the flow of refugees into Europe.
- 23 October 2015: A deadly rocket attack hits protesters in Benghazi
- At least five people are confirmed dead and another 30 injured when rockets were fired upon protestors. The protestors were demonstrating against the UN-proposed peace deal, according to local medics. 15 days before the attack and demonstrations, the UN envoy to Libya, Bernardino Leon, had presented a list of names to head the power-sharing government, though both warring governments rejected the proposed names. The Tripoli-based government said they would prefer if the earlier draft would be reconsidered. Though both sides rejected the list, the UN envoy said that the process will go on, and he will not allow for “small groups and personalities to hijack the process.” Western and Arab states welcomed the proposed list of names of the power-sharing government.
- 8 December 2015: US airstrikes kill top IS-Libya leader
- The Pentagon confirmed the death of Abu Nabil, the leader of the Islamic State in Libya. The airstrike took place on November 13 in the city of Derna. The US maintains that the airstrike will “degrade IS-Libya’s ability to meet the group’s objectives in Libya, including recruiting new ISIL members, establishing bases in Libya and planning an external attack on the US.” Abu Nabil, an Iraqi national, is also known as Wissam Najm Abd Zayd al-Zubaydi.
- 17 December 2015: Skhirat agreement signed in Morocco
- The Skhirat agreement aims to establish a single Government of National Accord (GNA) ad national institutions which would ensure broad representation. The agreement is between the two rival parliaments and governments – the UN-backed General National Congress (GNC) and Western-recognized House of Representatives (HoR) in Tobruk. The agreement calls for the creation of a 17-member cabinet, headed by current Prime Minister of UN-backed government Fayez al-Serraj. Additionally, the government calls for the creation of a 9-member Presidential Council who were given responsibility for selecting the national unity government.
- The Skhirat began in 6 March 2015: Latest UN-sponsored peace talks on Libya begin in Morocco. Latest UN-sponsored peace talks begin in Shkirate, Morocco. The talks aim to end the political stalemate between the Tripoli and Tobruk based governments, with the intention of ending the conflict. The peace talks took place just three days after the Tobruk government gave a green light for its representatives to attend UN-brokered talks. The talks began when tensions were high since the Tobruk based government had dispatched warplanes to carry out airstrikes in Tripoli. During the talks, both sides agreed to halt airstrike until the peace talks ended three days later. Also, before the talks, the Tobruk government had urged the UN to recognise them as the sole representative of the Libyan people. Moreover, just before the peace talks, the Tobruk government appointed General Khalifa as the Army chief. The process to create a new unity government was a year-long process with several peace conferences held in European and middle eastern cities that resulted in numerous signed agreements. The two rival governments could not agree on key issues such as elections and size of the Presidential Council. The UN envoy to Libya, Bernardo Leon, urged both sides to accept a way forward due to the rising influence of IS-Libya. Internal struggles in both camps, which included the resignation of representatives, also slowed down the process of reaching an agreement.
- 19 January 2016: Presidential Council of Libya announces Unity government
- Libya’s Presidential Council announces Unity Government. The new government, as stipulated in the Shkirat agreement, aims to unite the country’s warring factions under a UN-backed plan. The Presidential Council, which was given the authority to create the new unity government, operates from Tunisia. Interestingly, only 7 out of the 9 members singed the document that named 32 ministers, one of whom is a woman.
- 25 January 2016: Libya’s parliament rejects UN-backed Unity government: Libya’s Tobruk-based parliament, House of Representatives (HoR), voted against the UN-backed unity government with rival authorities based in Tripoli. 89 out of 104 members of the parliament rejected the UN-sponsored unity Presidential Council. The HoR called for the boycott of two current members of the Presidential Council, Ali al-Gotrani and Omar Al-Aswad.
- February 2016: Libya’s Presidential council names Ministers of the new UN-backed government: Before their arrival to Tripoli, the Presidential Council named a list of 18 ministers who would be part of the GNA. Interestingly, the PC refused to put their signatures on the proposed government. The latest list differed from the list they had submitted on 19thJanuary which named 32 ministers. The previous list, which was rejected by the Tobruk-based parliament, was signed by seven out of the nine members of PC.
- 20 February 2016: Abducted Serbs ‘killed in US airstrikes’ in Libya
- Two Serbians working at the embassy, who were kidnapped in November 2015, are believed to be among the 49 killed in US airstrikes on a suspected IS-Libya training camp. The airstrike was targeting Tunisian Noureddine Chouchane, the alleged mastermind for two attacks on tourists in Tunisia in 2015 which killed dozens. The two kidnapped Serbians worked as a communication officer and driver for the Serbian diplomatic envoy in Libya. They were abducted when their envoy, which the Serbian ambassador was part of, was ambushed near Sabratha.
- 31 March 2016: Libya’s UN-backed government sails into Tripoli
- Following the signing of the agreement on December 2015, the UN-backed government, Government of National Accord (GNA), has officially moved to Tripoli to ‘govern’ the country. GNA returns to Tripoli, from Tunisia, despite threats from rival factions in the capital city. Their arrival was met with sporadic gunfire. Members of the Presidential Council, which is tasked with creating the new unity government, came by sea to set up a temporary seat of power at a naval base. Libya’s new UN-supported Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj threatened to send names of 17 politicians, militia leaders, and religious figures to INTERPOL and UNSC for “supporting terrorism” if they continue to “impede the democratic transition.”
- 7 April 2016: power struggle ensues in Tripoli
- Reports indicate that the new unity government might be disarray after the unrecognised Tripoli Prime Minister Khalifa Ghweil refused to stand down. Khalifa Ghweil, the leader of National Salvation Government, urged his ministers not to stand down in a statement. The statement said that “given the requirements of public interest…you are requested to continue your mission in accordance with the law.” The statement also issued a warning against any of the ministers who decide to work with the new government. This new statement is contrary to previous reports that the National Salvation Government had accepted to join the unity government.
- For more information about National Salvation Government, refer to its section in Key Actors
Actors
8 June 2016: Alleged people-smuggling kingpin extradited to Italy
Eritrean Medhane Yehdego Mered, the alleged people-smuggling kingpin has been extradited to Italy. The 35-year-old, who was arrested in Sudan two weeks prior, is accused of smuggling people through Libya. His accomplice, Ethiopian-born Ermias Ghermay, is still on the run. According to the lead prosecutor, Mered is being investigated for aiding undocumented migration to Europe since 2012 and possible banking fraud for the transfer of funds to pay for the people smuggling. The investigation into Mered indicated that he had paid $45,000 in one occasion to Libyan officials to facilitate the removal of refugees out of prison so that they can make their journey to Europe.
May-August: 2016: Fighting between pro-government forces and IS-Libya in Sirte continues
Fighting between pro-government forces and IS-Libya over Sirte continues. In one of the bloodiest days this month, the battle left at least 36 dead and almost 150 wounded. Most of the deceased were pro-government forces. Though they have suffered major losses, they have been rapidly capturing ground west of Sirte at the end of May and are slowly advancing to the centre of the city. Most importantly, they have recaptured part of the “700 neighbourhood” which is where IS-Libya had positioned themselves due to the tall buildings. Earlier in the month, the forces captured two barracks, as well as a bridge and an intersection that lead to the western entrance of the Sirte. They had also captured Garadabiya air base as part of their campaign to capture the city from IS-Libya. In addition to capturing key instillations, militias loyal to the UN-backed government have captured coastal towns near Sirte. In August, Pro-government forces, who are mainly from the nearby city of Misrata, recapture IS-Libya headquarters in Sirte, the Ouagadougou complex. The pro-government militia, known as Al Bonyan Brigade, were supported by US airstrikes, known as Operation Odyssey Lightning, which began 1 August. The offensive will continue until the entire city is under the control of the UN-backed government.
France, American and British operate from the Benina base near Benghazi. The foreign militaries, who claim to be allied to the UN-backed government, say they are in the area to monitor IS-Libya’s progress in the city. Though the foreign militaries claim that they are in Libya supporting the UN-backed government, information has been presented to show that they are also supporting forces loyal to General Khalifa, who controls sections of Benghazi. Le Monde, a French newspaper, revealed that the French have been providing intelligence that led to the killing of IS-Libya, Aby Nabil, in Derna in November 2015, by LNA troops. In addition to the expose, air traffic control recording, released at the beginning of the month, indicate that the foreign militaries shave been coordinating airstrikes in support of General Khalifa. The airstrikes target General Khalifa’s enemies; some are Islamists while others are political adversaries. On 26 July, the UN-backed government condemned French military involvement in the Libyan conflict. This condemnation came after France confirmed that their special forces have been operating in the country, without the knowledge of the recognised government. France was forced to admit this after three of their soldiers were killed in a helicopter crash in eastern Libya during an intelligence-gathering operation. The plane is believed to have been shot down by an “Islamic militia.” In November, a Libyan media house obtained audio recordings where US pilot speaking with the control tower of General Khalifa-controlled airbase. The incident is believed to have taken place between June and August.
11 – 19 September 2016: Khalifa forces target oil ports
Military offensives by forces loyal to General Khalifa to control ports in Libya’s oil crescent began on 11 September. According to Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG), who are in charge of protecting oil terminals, General Khalifa’s forces attacked at Zeuitina, Ras Lanfu and Es Sider ports to the east of Sirte. By 14 September, Khalifa’s forces had captured oil port of Brega. With a firm hold on Brega, Khalifa and his forces have seized four oil ports in total. According to the military sources within the UN-backed government, this means that the general now controls the vital oil installations in Libya. The International Community and the UN-backed government condemned General Khalifa’s offensives both in the oil crescent. PFG attempted to retake some of the ports from the militias but were unable to do so.
5 December 2016: UN-backed forces retakes the entire city of Sirte from ISIS
Members of a militia group allied to Libyan UN-backed government have retaken control of the coastal city of Sirte from the IS-Libya. IS-Libya has been in control of the city since 2015. The number of civilians who are trapped in the city during the government advances are still uncertain. It is believed that there were 6000 IS-Libya fighters. The operation to reclaim the city of Sirte started in May. Following months of fighting, the city is in the rubble, with many of the houses, banks, mosques and hospitals destroyed. Since IS-Libya took over the city in 2015, ¾ of the population have fled.
26 January 2017: Khalifa’s forces drive Ansar al-Sharia out of Qanfouda district, Benghazi
Following through with his promise of driving Islamist forces out of the Benghazi and its neighbourhood, Libyan National Army (LNA) forces have drive out Ansar al-Sharia out of Qanfouda district. LNA claims that they have freed more than 60 people from captivity. Ansar al-Sharia has presence in Al-Saberi and Souq al-Hout districts in Benghazi.
3 May 2017: General Khalifa and Fayez al-Serraj met in the United Arab Emirates
The surprise meeting between General Khalifa and UN-backed Prime Minister Fayez occurred in the United Arab Emirates. During the two-hour meeting, the two rivals discussed army-related amendments to an agreement signed in Morocco in December 2015. They also discussed the reduction of the members of the Presidential Council from nine to three with the two leaders as part of the council, as well as the head of the House of Representatives, Aquila Saleh.
10 May 2017: Libyan foreign minister names Khalifa as army chief
Libyan Foreign Minister, Mohamed Siyala, said General Khalifa could be Libya’s army chief if he recognises the UN-backed government as the only authority. This announcement came just a week after General Khalifa and Fayez al-Serraj met in the United Arab Emirates.
20 May 2017: 141 people killed in Barak al-Shat airbase attack
At least 141 people, mostly soldiers loyal to General Khalifa, were killed in an attack on Barak al-Shat airbase in southern Libya. LNA allege that militias loyal to UN-backed government carried out summary execution following the assault. Tripoli government denied allegations that they had ordered the attack and said it would set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the allegation.
25 May 2017: NGO alleges Libyan coastguard opened fire at refugee boats
International NGOs, SOS Mediterranee, Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children and Jugend Rettet, allege that Libyan coastguard opened fire at the refugee boats. About 70 people jumped into the water after they heard the gunshots which endangered their lives further. Additionally, the aid organisations say that two Libyan coastguard officers stole mobile phones and money from passengers.
27 May 2017: Egypt launches strikes in Libya after Minya attack
Egypt carries out 6 airstrikes at camps near Derna where armed men responsible for a deadly attack on Coptic Christians are believed to have trained. The attack on Coptic Christians, which took place a day before the airstrikes, resulted in the deaths of 28 people in Minya province in Egypt. ISIS-Sinai province claimed responsibility for the attack.
28 June 2017: Libya’s Ansar al-Sharia announces dissolution
Ansar al-Sharia armed group announced its own dissolution, adding that they have been “weakened” by fighting in Benghazi. The group has suffered heavy losses that wiped out its leaders and decimated its fighters. LNA had intensified their offensives to oust Ansar al-Sharia fighters from their remaining strongholds in Benghazi.
The Lebanese national, Ghassan Salame, previously serves as political advisor to the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), where he played a critical role in bringing together Iraqi factions to the negotiation table. He also served as Senior Advisor to the Secretary-General (2003-2007, 2012), and as a member of the Commission on Rakhine State (Myanmar) chaired by Kofi Annan. He was also a professor of International Relations at Science-Po and founding Dean of its Paris School in International Affairs.
6 July 2017: Haftar’s forces declare victory in battle of Benghazi
General Khalifa announced that they had taken full control of Benghazi from rival armed groups. Their campaign to claim Benghazi began three years ago. In a televised speech, he assured people of Benghazi that the city has “entered a new era of safety and peace.” Many soldiers of LNA died during the battle of Benghazi; many of them from landmines, according to a military force. Before officially taking over the city, the pro-government forces in the area, Benghazi Defence Brigades (BDB) retreated from the area which allowed LNA to take over.
25 July 2017: Haftar and Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj agree to a new ceasefire and fresh elections
Following talks in Paris with French President Macron as the mediator, Haftar and Fayez al-Sarraj agree to commit to the term of the ceasefire while agreeing to fresh elections. Ghassan Salame, the new Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSML), was present at the meetings. The discussion between the two warring leaders ended with a 10-point joint declaration where the leaders acknowledged that the “solution to the Libyan crisis can only be a political one and requires a national reconciliation process involving all Libyans.”
10 August 2017: Rights group documents human rights abuses and violations in Libya
The human rights group, Human Rights Solidarity (HRS), which is based in Tripoli, called for urgent action to stop what they call mass killing in Benghazi. Their allegations come just days after six bodies were found a dumpster in Shabneh neighbourhood in Benghazi. The six bodies showed signs of torture with bullet holes in the head and chest areas. Five of the six bodies were identified by family members who say that the victims were “kidnapped by military forces. “The rights group concluded that the bodies were recently dumped since the blood was still running for some of the bodies. HRS added that this is the third incident in the last month where they have found dumped bodies around the city.
31 October 2017: US says suspect linked to the 2012 Benghazi attack captured
US government says that a suspect linked to the 2012 Benghazi attack, Mustafa al-Imam, has been captured in Libya. He will face justice in the US where he was charged with killing or conspiring to kill a person during an attack on a federal facility, providing material support for “terrorists” and using a firearm in connection with a violent crime.
29 November 2017: African refugees and migrants bought, sold and murdered in Libya
Reports from various sources indicate that there is a thriving ‘slave trade’ where African refugees and migrants bought, sold and murdered in Libya. These reports show photos of and videos of migrants and refugees being auctioned off as merchandise. According to a human trafficker, many refugees and migrants are held for ransom or forced into prostitution and sexual exploitation to pay their captors and smugglers. The smugglers’ murdered some of the migrants and refugees in the open desert. Those who die are never identified, and many end up being buried without names or proper graves.
These reports have enraged the international community, many urging the Libyan government to take urgent action to end the practice. The Libyan ambassador to the UN promised the UNSC to impose sanctions on people and entities involved in the slave trade in Libya. Additionally, Libya reached a deal with EU and AU leaders, which will allow the emergency reparation of refugees and migrants facing abuse in detention camps in the country.
Amnesty International accuses European governments of knowingly exposing thousands of refugees and migrants to torture and abuse in their efforts to curb migration. They add that since late 2016, the EU member states, particularly Italy, have implemented a series of measures aimed at closing off the migratory route through Libya and across the central Mediterranean. Amnesty adds that by doing so, the EU countries are not taking into consideration the migrants and refugees trapped within Libya. Those trapped in Libya are subjected to remain in detention centres where they held indefinitely and routinely exposed to severe human rights violations, including torture.
torture.
18 December 2017: UN-backed government’s mandate obsolete says, General Khalifa
General Khalifa says that since the UN-backed government agreement was renewed only once after its approval by the UN, it is obsolete. He added that since it was not renewed to operate from 17 December 2017, all institutions created by this agreement are void. He added that these institutions “have not obtained full legitimacy since the first day they started working.”
24 January 2018: Twin car bombs kill almost 3 dozen in Benghazi
A residential district in Benghazi wa shit by two car bombs, killing 34 people and wounding 87. The first bomb took place outside a mosque as worshippers were leaving evening prayer and the second, the more powerful of the bombs, went off minutes later as rescue workers and security forces arrived at the scene. There is no immediate claim for responsibility.
8 February 2018: Libyan commander wanted by ICC hands himself in
Libyan commander, Mahmoud al-Werfalli, has handed himself to ICC officials following the release of his arrest warrant in August 2017. He is accused of the alleged summary execution of dozens of people. The ICC has been placing pressure on General Haftear to hand him over to the tribunal. Al-Werfali is a member of an elite unit of the LNA. His arrest did not seat well with some of the citizens and military officials alike who took to the streets to protest immediately after he turned himself in.
1 March 2018: UN Panel reports findings to UNSC about embargo violation
A UN-leaked report discusses the findings of the embargo violations in Libya. The report says armed groups in Libya continue to receive foreign support from nations. Additionally, UN member states, especially Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, continue to sell or supply arms to Libya. Egypt is also accused of conducting airstrikes in Libya that support General Khalifa’s ambitions. The report also implicated armed groups fighting in Libya. The report detailed how pro-Haftar groups are kidnapping and torturing journalists, activists and religious figures in Eastern Libya.
22 March 2018: Saif al-Islam Gaddafi hopes to run for president
Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the son of former president Gaddafi, announced that he plans to run for president in the scheduled December 2018 election. Saif’s, who was released from prison in June 2017 where he was found guilty for war crimes and sentenced to death but was pardoned, whereabouts are unknown. His spokesperson said that he is Libya and is interested in becoming part of the political process. He can run for a government position after the UN-backed government revoked the law passed in 2013 that banned Gaddafi-era officials from holding public office in 2015.
Islamic State in Libya claims attack on Libya’s electoral commission headquarter in Tripoli which killed at least 12 people and injured several others. Those killed included three officials and four security officers. The attack started when two suicide bombers denoted his suicide vest then armed assailants stormed the building. The headquarters were registering voters before the election expected at the end of the year.
4 May – 28 June 2018: General Khalifa’s forces march towards Derna City
General Khalifa’s troops have entered Derna city. It’s disputed who controls the city as al-Qaida linked and IS in Libya groups have held the city, but the LNA have besieged the city for two years. The LNA has been on the mission to take the city since 7 May 2018 when the soldiers began conquering the outskirts of the city, marching towards the centre of the city. Egypt announced they conducted airstrikes against the Derna Shura Council, who recently changed their name to Derna Protection Forces, in Derna. The government said that the airstrikes are retaliatory airstrikes for the bombing of the Coptic bus in Upper Egypt. In the process, two LNA soldiers were killed in a car bomb, and another was abducted from a checkpoint. Once entering the city centre, intense fighting took place between 7 and 28 June 2018. The citizens of the city have been asking the LNA to allow people with a safe exit from the city. By 9 June, over 2000 families had been displaced, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
15 May 2018: Libya returns beheaded bodies to Egypt
Libya transports the bodies of the 20 Coptic Christians to Egypt who were beheaded in 2015 by ISIS militants. The group released a video showing the beheading in 2015, which Egypt and the Coptic Church confirmed the authenticity, which caused international outrage. The 20 men were kidnapped int two separate attacks in December 2014 and January 2015 from the coastal town of Sirte.
28-29 May 2018: Libyan rivals agree to ‘historic’ election plan at the Paris Peace talks
Four parties have agreed to hold parliamentary and presidential elections on 10 December. This agreement comes after days of negotiations held in the French capital. The four parties are; 1) the UN-backed Tripoli government, 2) the HoR Tobruk-based government, 3) High Council of State, Libya’s highest consultative body, formed from the 2012 parliament and 4) Khalifa Haftar and his Libyan National Army. Though the parties have agreed to hold elections, it’s important to note that nothing was signed during the meeting. It was more a verbal agreement to set dates. This agreement also comes weeks after the Islamic State attacked Libya’s electoral commission headquarters in Libya.
11 – 16 June 2018: Crisis at sea as Aquarius refugee ship unable to dock in Italy
- On June 11, the new Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini blocked the Aquarius refugee ship carrying 629 refugees and migrants, 123 of whom are unaccompanied minors and 7 pregnant women. The boat is operated by the European charity SOS Mediterranee and Doctors without Borders. In his statement, the Interior Minister, who is from the far-right League party, said that Italy would say no to human trafficking and illegal immigration. Italy has told the boat operators to dock in Malta, but Malta has also refused for the boat to dock there.
UNHRC commented on the situation, urging EU countries to allow the ship to dock and deal with the “wider issues” later. Germany said that EU countries need to fulfil their humanitarian responsibilities. Following discussions, Spain has offered safe harbour in the eastern port of Valencia. Though MSF officials were thankful to Spain, they say it is preferable to dock at the closest port since the journey to Spain is an extra four days. 500 of the 629 migrants and refugees on board the Aquarius were transferred to two Italian coastguard and navy vessels, which will help transport them to Spain.
15 August 2018: 45 people sentenced to death over killing of demonstrators in Tripoli in 2011
A Libyan criminal court sentenced 45 people to death over murder of demonstrators in Tripoli in 2011. They are accused of opening fire on dozens of rebel forces during the uprising that brought the defeat, and eventual killing, of Colonel Gaddafi. In addition to the 45 death sentences, 54 people were given 5-year jail sentence while another 22 were acquitted of all charges relating to deaths of demonstrators.
30 August 2018: UN-backed government declares state of emergency
Thee UN-backed Tripoli government declared a state of emergency following intense fighting in the capital city. Currently, the struggle is between local militia and al-Kani tribal fighters from Tarhouna, southeast of Tripoli. Interestingly, both sides are allied to the UN-backed government. Over 30 people are reported dead in just a few days.
Five days later, the UN announced that UN says that rival militias factions fighting in Tripoli have agreed to a ceasefire. This comes after 47 people killed in the violence and other 1800 families displaced according to WHO. The agreement of the ceasefire also comes when militias in western Libya were able to hold to the terms of the ceasefire for only several hours.
22 September 2018: Death toll from clashes in Tripoli rises to 96
Fighting between militias allied to UN-backed Tripoli government and General Khalifa, which began on August 26, has cost the lives of 96 people, some of whom are civilians. The constant gun battles, which has so far been localised in Southern Salah al-Din district, has made it difficult for aid agencies to reach the affect families. The fighting has violated the September 4 UN-brokered ceasefire deal.
16 October 2018: East Libyan forces reopen probe into Abdel Fattah Younes killing
Eastern Libyan authorities have resumed the investigation of the unexplained killing of a rebel commander, Abdel Fattah Younes, during the 2011 uprising that toppled Gaddafi. The investigation came from a direct command from Haftar himself to the military prosecutor in the region to “immediately and urgently reopen the investigation. Though the family of the slain commander needs to know what happened to him, the contentious case risks stirring new tension between forces loyal to General Khalifa and UN-backed administration in Tripoli. A previous investigation has implicated Ali Essawi, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Transitional National Council, whose case was later dropped. The renewed efforts to investigate began as a result of Ali Essawi’s appointment as the Economy and Industry Minister by PM Fayez al=Serraj.
13 November 2018: Rebel leader Khalifa extends an olive branch to rival UN-recognised government
Rebel leader Khalifa extends an olive branch to rival UN-recognised government. He said that he will not seek to topple the Tripoli-based government and will wait for the elections aimed to take place in early 2019. Previously, the elections were to take place on 10 December 2018 but did not take place due to time constraints. Khalifa’s statement was made at the Italian-led peace conference, which he had indicated that he would not participate in, where the two rival leaders met for the first time since the May 2018.
Also, at the peace conference was HoR government head, Aguila Saleh and Khalid al-Mishri, the speaker of the upper chamber of parliament in Tripoli. Regional governments, Egypt and Tunisia, were present at the conference, as well as European and American counterparts.
Upon inspection of the Souq al-Khamis migrant detention centre in Khoms ran by Libya’s Department for Combatting Illegal Migration (DCIM), scribbles can be seen on the wall to warn incoming arrivals. The scribbles on the wall include, “Where is UNHRC?” “Libya is a market of human beings,” “Who comes to this house, may God help you.” The scribbles on the wall are further proof to support previously released documentaries and reports that illustrate sustained abuse. According to al-Jazeera, they have received multiple reports and conducted interviews with 7 migrants who were present at the detention centre that show that the guards at the centre are selling refugees and migrants to smuggling groups.
26 December 2018: Suicide attackers target the foreign ministry building in Tripoli
IS-Libya Fighters stormed the Libya foreign ministry building in Tripoli killing at least 3 people, including a senior civil servant, while 10 others were injured. The fighters stormed the building following a car bomb explosion near the ministry, which forced security forces to rush to the scene. A suicide bomber then ambushed the security forces while another suicide bomber who died when his explosives prematurely detonated.
1 January 2019: Libya’s rival government hold peace talks in Benghazi
Members of the UN-backed GNC government and House of Representatives (HoR) government based in Tobruk met in Benghazi following a four-year impasse between the two sides. One of the topics discussed the coordination of security efforts, including sharing their security databases. The meeting was seen as a step in the right direction since they were able to meet without any international mediators’ present, though the meeting only took place due to pressure from the international community.
8 February 2019: Conflict erupts for control of Libya’s largest oil field
Fighting broke out over the future of Libya’s largest oil field, al-Sharara field, between forces loyal to UN-backed government and Libyan National Army under general Khalifa. The fighting begins just two days after Khalifa’s LNA said that they seized the oilfield without any resistance. The al-Sharara fields produce 315,000 barrels of crude a day, about a third of Libya’s total current output. The field was closed by the Libyan National Oil Corporation (NOC) since December when local tribes seized the field. They demanded the Tripoli government do more to lift the area out of poverty.
3 March 2019: Refugees in Libya ‘tortured’ for breaking out of detention centre
Following the attempted escape of 150 males detained at the Tripoli’s Triq al-Sikka detention centre, as many as 30 of them, including minor, allege to be tortured at an underground cell. Witnesses say the guards at the cell beat the migrants and refugees with sticks and metal bars. International Rescue Committee confirmed that two detainees were taken to the hospital, but the spokesperson said the organisation could not confirm how they were injured.
4 April 2019 – Present: Khalifa begins operations to capture Tripoli from UN-backed government
General Haftar ordered his troops, the Libyan National Army (LNA), to advance towards Tripoli where the UN-backed government is housed on April 4th The push towards Tripoli has come on the eve of major territorial gain in other parts of the country. Towards Tripoli, Khalifa has had to fight an umbrella group of the city’s most powerful militias who are affiliated with the UN-backed government. According to Prime Minister of Libya, Fayez al-Serraj, the move towards Tripoli is being interpreted as a pathway towards launching a coup against the government. Additionally, the UN condemned the “silence” of his intentional allies. He warned international allies that if they are divided in action, history might repeat itself like in 2011. Though PM Al-Serraj feels that the international community has remained silent, the G7 has called all parties to half all military activities. The UNSMIL has been trying to broker a ceasefire between the parties involved but with no luck. UN-Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, flew to Benghazi for talks with General Khalifa in attempts to stop the renewed fighting in Tripoli.
A month after the operation had started, at least 500 people had b7een killed and 2000 more injured while another 75,000 people were displaced. The numbers are expected to rise after Khalifa ordered his troop to redouble their efforts, to “teach the enemy a great and bigger lesson than the previous one.” Tripoli residents are trapped in the city as they cannot move due to the frequency of airstrikes from both sides and the armed conflict on the ground.
17 April 2019: Tunisia investigates two incidents of armed Europeans crossing from Libya to Tunisia
Tunisia authorities claim that they have stopped more than 20 armed Europeans attempting to cross the country from Libya. In the recent incident, an armed group of 13 French nationals driving 4X4 vehicles with diplomatic license plates were caught crossing one of the crossings. The French citizens were denied entry after failing to disclose the entirety of its arms inventory. The French Embassy in Tunis commented on the situation, saying that the individuals are part of a security detail attached to the French diplomatic mission in Libya. In a previous incident, the 11 European nationals from different countries tried to enter Tunisia through the sea using two rubber lifeboats. Upon their arrest, the Tunisian navy confiscated their weapons.
A BBC investigation reveals evidence of alleged war crime in Libya perpetrated by self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA). The investigation is based on widely shared videos, and photos shared on social media platforms. The investigation claims that the LNA is coming war crimes since international law states the desecration of bodies and posting of images online for propaganda constitutes a war crime.
16 June 2019: Libya’s Prime Minister calls for elections in 2019 to end war
Libya’s Prime Minister Feyez al-Sarraj calls for national elections in 2019 to end the war. During the press conference, he proposed the creation of a Libyan congress aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the conflict. This will involve the creation of a roadmap for the parliamentary and presidential election which would be held in Tripoli at the end of the year. This press conference as he and his administration await for the arrival of Libyan National Army (LNA) troops, under the leadership of General Khalifa, who are advancing towards Tripoli.
2 July 2019: Twin airstrikes hit a migrant detention camp in Tripoli killing at least 53 people
A UN reports indicate that two airstrikes hit Tajoura centre, a migrant detention camp in Tripoli, killing at least 53 migrants and injured another 130. One of the airstrikes struck an unoccupied garage, and the other hit a hanger which housed at least 120 migrants. According to the UN, in addition to the airstrikes, Libyan guards guarding the detention centre fired their guns towards the migrants who tried to flee following the airstrikes. Both the UN-backed government and rebel leader Khalifa Haftar blame each other for the attack. UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, said that the airstrikes could constitute a war crime.
The UN-backed Libyan government claim that the United Arabs Emirates are behind the airstrikes that killed at least 53 people. The Interior Minister of the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA), Fathi Bashaagha, said that their proof is that their technicians and pilots were able to discern the sound of the plane that conducted their airstrike. He added that the UAE had previously bombed Tripoli, an allegation that the UAE has denied.
Following the attack, the Tripoli-based GNA government says that they are considering closing all detention centres in Libya and release all refugees and migrants, citing safety concerns.
10 July 2019: French Missiles found on Pro-Haftar base
France has denied breaching the UN and EU arms embargo after four of its anti-tank missiles were located at a militia base loyal to General Khalifa. The missiles were discovered when a militia loyal to the UN back government overran the camp. Though France denies reaching arms embargo to Libya, they admit that the weapons belong to them. The statement said that “the weapons were for the protection of forces undertaking intelligence and counter-terror missions.”
10 August 2019: Libyan warring sides agree to a UN-sponsored temporary Eid Truce
Opposing sides, UN-recognised Tripoli government and General Khalifa’s Libyan National Army (LNA), in the Libyan conflict have agreed to a UN-sponsored temporary Eid al-Adha truce. General Khalifa’s spokesperson announced their willingness to abide with the ceasefire.
10 August 2019: 3 UN Staff, 2 mission staff killed in Benghazi Car bombing
A car bomb in front of a shopping mall and bank n Benghazi resulted in the deaths of 3 UN staff and 2 mission staff. According to Libyan National Army (LNA), allied to General Khalifa, two of the UN staff killed were UNSMIL guards. About ten others were wounded by the attack, including children, the spokesperson of the LNA added. The bombing comes after an agreed ceasefire between all sides for the observation of the Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday. No group has claimed responsibility.
30 August 2019: UNSG fears eruption of ‘full civil war’ in Libya
UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres says he fears Libya will end up in a “full civil war” unless moves are soon made to end the conflict. He urged all parties of the conflict to stop using explosive weapons, including aerial bombing, in populated areas. He also expressed his concern about the presence of many foreign fighters and mercenaries in the Libyan conflict. UNSG comments came days after UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) issued their report of what has been happening over the past year in Libya.
16 September 2019: Migrant traffickers arrested in Libya
Italian police arrested three people in connection with trafficking, kidnapping and torturing migrants and refugees departing from Libya to Europe. The three arrested are from Guinean national, aged 27, and two Egyptian citizens, aged 24 and 26. According to witnesses, the three men ran a prisoner’s camp in Zawiya in Libya where they would hold captives until ransom was paid in full.
26 September 2019: General Khalifa reiterates his commitment to dialogue as fighting continues
General Khalifa reaffirmed his willingness to engage in dialogue after repeatedly rejecting UN-sponsored talks. Unsurprisingly, his show of support came after Libyan recognised Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj called the General a “war criminal” during the UN General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York. Though he favours dialogue, the added that it would not be possible to engage in dialogue “as long as terrorist and criminal militias control Tripoli, probably referencing al-Sarraj-supporting militias in Tripoli.
2 November 2019: Migration deal between Italy and Libya renewed
As a follow up on the MOU signed between Italy and the UN-recognised Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA), a migration deal has been signed. The agreement follows the framework agreed upon in February 2017 which restricts arrival of migrants and refugees into Italy from Libya. Human Rights institution have voiced their dislike of the agreement
Al-Jazeera investigation uncovers arms from Egypt, Russia and UAE are part of General Khalifa’s arsenal. According to the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord’s (GNA) Interior Minister, Fathi Bashaga, General Khalifa benefits from Benghazi directly borders Egypt. The investigation obtained secret Egyptian Foreign Ministry documents dating to May 26, 2017, that shows the facilitation of Sudanese militia deployment to Libya with Cairo’s help. Additionally, the journalists were able to document frequent trips of an Egyptian military cargo between the two countries.
A UN investigation says that Jordan, Turkey, Sudan, UAE regularly violate the UN arms embargo on Libya by providing weapons to both sides. Turkey sold drones to the GNA, a purchase that was defended by the government, saying that they haven’t received any real support from their allies, therefore needed external help. The same investigation claim that Russian mercenaries have been deployed to the frontline to assist General Khalifa’s forces. Sudan, under the direction of Lt General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemeti, has sent at least 1000 Rapid Support Forces to Libya to support General Khalifa in July. The UAE provides General Khalifa with an advanced air defence system installed at the al-Jufra base near the city of Gharyan.
17 November 2019: EU calls for the release of women’s rights activist
EU issued a statement calling for the “immediate release” of Siham Sergiwa, a politician part of the Tobruk-based House of Representative and prominent women’s rights activist who was kidnapped in Benghazi four months earlier. The family of the activist claim that she might have been kidnapped by forces loyal to General Khalifa who controls the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi.
18 November 2019: Airstrike on biscuit factory kills 10, wounds 35
26 November 2019: US officials meet General Khalifa to end Tripoli offensive
Senior US officials, led by US Ambassador to Libya, Richard Norland, met with Libya’s General Khalifa to discuss steps towards ending his offensive on Tripoli, the US state department announced. In a statement released by the State Department, the officials voiced their concern about Russia’s exploitation of the conflict. The comments on Russia come a time where reports indicate that Russian mercenaries have been fighting alongside General Khalifa’s LNA. The meeting with General Khalifa was a continuation of the meeting held in Washington DC at the beginning of November.
The meeting was held a day after Libyan official allied to General Khalifa’s LNA apologised for accidentally shooting down the US drown over the Libyan capital of Tripoli. Two days prior to the shooting of the US drone, General Khalifa had declared Tripoli a “no-fly zone, where flying is totally prohibited without prior coordination with the General Command of the armed forces.”
2 December 2019: Two airstrike kills at least 16 people
On of the airstrikes in Tripoli killed at least five children and 10 others wounded. The second airstrike killed nine children and two women in a drone attack in the southern town of Murzuq. The UN-backed government, GNA, accused General Khalifa’s LNA of conducting those airstrikes.
5 December 2019: UN-recognised government cite evidence of Russian mercenaries in war
Officials within the UN-recognised government, GNA, are planning to confront Moscow over the alleged deployment of Russian mercenaries to fight alongside General Khalifa. GNA claims that there are between 600 and 800 Russian mercenaries, part of Wagner Group, in Libya. According to government officials, Russia has bee moving from Syria to Egypt and then to Amman to Benghazi
12 December 2019: Haftar’s “final battle” for Tripoli
12 December 2019: Haftar’s “final battle” for Tripoli
Haftar announced the beginning of a new offensive in what he said would be the “final battle” for the capital. Speaking on Al Arabiya TV, he said “Today we announce the decisive battle and the advancement towards the heart of the capital to set it free …advance now our heroes,” Reuters reported
21 December 2020: LNA seized and released captured ship and crew
Euronews reported LNA seized a vessel with several Turkish crew members. Al Jazeera added that the ship and crew were released two days later.
27 December 2019: Battle at Al-Takbali
Using the Mitiga and Misrata International Airports, fighters of the Turkish- backed Syrian rebels, Sultan Murad Division, and Sham Legion fought for the GNA at a camp called “Al-Takbali” in the Salah al-Din camp area in southern Tripoli.
4 January 2020: Airstrike attacks at Tripoli Academy kills at least 29 cadets
BBC reported an airstrike on a military academy in Tripoli by the LNA that killed at least 29 cadets and wounded 24. This was confirmed by the GNA. In response, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense stated: “We strongly condemn the attack by Haftar’s forces, the enemies of peace, on the Military Academy in Tripoli aiming to realize their unlawful intentions. Details from the Libyan Herald revealed the UNSMIL equally condemned the attack.
5 January 2020: The first Syrian fighter, part of the Sultan Murad Division was killed.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported the death of one of the militants that were deployed to Libya to fight with the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) forces.
6 January 2020: LNA captures Sirte after 604 Brigade defection
In news from Aljazeera, Khaled al-Mahjoub, a spokesman of Haftar’s self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA), said the fighters captured “all the districts surrounding the city”, including al-Qardabiya airbase, before moving towards the city center. According to The Libya Observer, for several weeks, Haftar’s forces have been launching sporadic attacks on Sirte with several air attacks by UAE drones. These have resulted in several deaths from the Sirte Protection and Security Force thereby causing some to retreat.
UNSMIL convened a meeting of 19 Libyan economic and financial experts representing diverse Libyan interests. This was held in Tunis as part of the intra-Libyan component of the Salame three-point peace plan aimed at campaigning for stability.
12 January 2020: Khalifa rejects ceasefire peace agreement
Putin admits Russia’s influence in the Libya Civil war. A process ceasefire agreement was has been supported by Germany and Italy for a Russian–Turkish peace process The Libya Observer reported. Shortly after General Khalifa Hafter accepted to sign the ceasefire agreement, he left Moscow rejecting the accord with the GNA leader Fayez-al-Sarraj claiming the deal “ignores many of the Libyan army’s demands”.
19 January 2020: Berlin Arms Embargo Conference in Berlin
After five international preparation meetings over several months, the Berlin Conference for the political leaders of states alleged to have violated the arms embargo on Libya and of other major international powers took place in Berlin on 19 January 2020, intending to stop international involvement in the Libyan conflict. This conference launched the second component of the three-point peace plan and was attended by both Serraj and Haftar but they didn’t participate directly in the main talks, because they refused to be in the same room as one another. Anti-Haftar protesters (150 people) held posters near the Berlin conference venue with some quotes like “Haftar kills Libyan children”.
25 January 2020: Arms embargo violations in Libya
Reports from UNSMIL have revealed several violations of the signed arms embargo during the previous ten days, as there have been “numerous cargo and other flights [had] been observed landing at Libyan airports in the western and eastern parts of the country providing the parties with advanced weapons, armored vehicles, advisers and fighters.”
3 February 2020:UNSMIL reports joint meeting in Geneva
To agree on which practical details as it relates to monitoring and strengthening the existing ceasefire, the 5+5 Libyan Joint Military Commission of 5 senior GNA-selected military officers and 5 senior LNA officers started meeting in Geneva on 3 February in the military track of the intra-Libyan component of the Salamé 3-point peace process convened.
18 February 2020: UN announces second joint Military Commission
Thomson Reuters reports revealed a second 5+5 Libyan Joint Military Commission which started a negotiation round in Geneva.
20 February 2020: Suspended negotiations continue in Geneva UNSMIL said
A devastating LNA attack on Tripoli harbor resulted in the suspension of the negotiations in Geneva. However, the UNSMIL added that 5+5 military track of negotiations continued in Geneva.
24 February 2020: UAE suspected of violating UN arms embargo to Libya
The United Arab Emirates is suspected to have provided arms to support the LNA led by Khalifa from mid-January 2020 to early March 2020. Reports have it from the Guardian that the UAE is believed to have shipped more than 100 deliveries, totaling about 5,000 metric tons, to Haftar’s forces, via aircraft flights some from military bases in the UAE and others from the UAE’s airbase in Assab, Eritrea. Though the shipment contents are not identified, suspicion has it that arms, ammunition, artillery, and communication equipment could be included. UN deputy special envoy for Libya Stephanie Williams and Moncef Kartas, the retired UN weapons inspector for Libya, said there had been “no respect for the UN arms embargo, absolutely none,”.
26 February 2020: Geneva peace talk comprised of 40 participants
News from The Libya Observer was that the political track of the Libyan peace process started in Geneva among 20 Libyans, from both the Tobruk-based and Tripoli-based parts of the HoR and the independent persons’ group selected by UNSMIL. The Libya Herald added talks were held by 13 HoR representatives from both the Tobruk and Tripoli branches, 13 HCS representatives and 14 UNSMIL-selected independent Libyans, for a total of 40.
9 March 2020: Syrian fighters who fled to Europe are almost 200
Syrian fighters sent to Libya by the Turkish military have been defecting to Europe in their numbers. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights this week reported that nearly 40 Syrian mercenaries who were recruited by the Turkish Army have also fled to Italy.
26 March 2020:LNA captures Zelten, al-Assah,Al-Jamil and Riqdalin
On the northwestern coast, LNA captured Zelten, al-Assah, Al-Jamil, and Riqdalin. Still, in recent news from AlmasdarNews, this resulted in them attempting to push on the Ras Jdir area near the Tunisian border.
Operation Peace Storm is launched by Sarraj who claims pro-GNA forces will counter-attack against LNA troops.
13 April 2020: The GNA forces seized control of the LNA-held towns
In Sorman, Sabratha, Regdalin, Ajaylat, Aljmail, Al Assah, and Zaltan towns, GNA forces recaptured the western Libyan coast which re-connects to the Tunisian border from LNA, DAILY SABAH reported.
16 April 2020:GNA forces besieged al-Watiya airbase
With Ankara providing the firepower, the United Nations-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli is poised to gain the upper hand against an eastern military commander backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Russian mercenaries, Bloomberg reported.
18 April 2020:GNA launched an offensive on Tarhuna on five axes
Though one of the first cities to announce its’ solidarity with commander Khalifa, Mustafa al-Mujai, a spokesman for the forces affiliated with the Government of National Accord (GNA), said their forces are advancing towards the city of Tarhuna from 5 axes AMN News Desk wrote. AA news added claims from the GNA that they have captured 102 pro-Hafter fighters and seized heavy military equipment, advancing against forces loyal to the warlord Khalifa Haftar. GNA forces also captured the axes of Al-Twaisha and Salah al-Din south of Tripoli.
19 April 2020: Unmanned aerial UAE drone near Misrata was downed by GNA
A spotted UAE drone was downed GNA claims. “Our forces successfully shot down an Emirati drone south of Misrata city, It was a Chinese-made drone equipped with guided missiles,” said Mohammed Kanunu, the spokesman for the GNA-led Burkan Al-Ghadab Operation (Volcano of Rage).
21 April 2020: LNA forces capture Al-Aqrabiya
The north airbase in the town od Al-Aqrabiya was captured after LNA launched a counter-attack from al-Watiya airbase.
23 April 2020: Saleh proposal to form a 3 part Presidency Council
The most contentious issue between them appears to be a scheme suggested by Saleh on this same day when Haftar made his call on the Libyan people to “express” themselves. According to Crisis Group, Saleh proposed to form a three-member Presidency Council (with one representative for each of Libya’s three historical provinces) that would appoint a new unity government to replace the current Tripoli-based council headed by Prime Minister Faiez Serraj; the House of Representatives in Tobruk would continue as Libya’s sole legislative body, and be charged with appointing a committee to draft a new constitution.
27 April 2020: Haftar makes a political declaration
Libyan critics said Haftar’s political declaration has only reinforced the notion that he cannot be a partner in negotiations. By giving them yet another reason to continue to fight him, Haftar’s latest gambit risks further perpetuating this tragic war, Crisis Group wrote.
29 April 2020: Mismari announces Ramadan ceasefire based on requests
New facts from Reuters have it that spokesman for Libya’s eastern-based forces, Ahmed Mismari announced that they will cease fire for Ramadan after suffering setbacks during weeks of intense fighting against Libya’s UN recognized government. Mismari publicly said in a television broadcast that the ceasefire came at the request of the international community and “friendly countries”.
30 April 2020: GNA ignores Hafter’s truce
Still from Reuter’s reports, the GNA responded to Haftar’s unilateral declaration of a ceasefire truce by rejecting it and saying it will keep fighting.
5 May 2020:The GNA launched an offensive to capture al-Watiya airbase
Mustafa al-Majai, a spokesman for the Libyan government’s Volcano of Rage operation, said the base is no longer a threat. He added an operation to seize the base from militias loyal to warlord Khalifa Haftar is still going as planned.”Some of our soldiers were martyred in an air attack by UAE fighter jets that took off from Al-Jufra airbase,” said Majai. The GNA claimed to have successfully encircled the base and they claimed two enemy Grad Rocket launch vehicles destroyed and various ammunition vehicles.
Middle East Monitor added that the GNA also claimed to have captured points south of Tripoli.
5 May 2020: Libyan anti-corruption official abducted by GNA backed militia over fund dispute
A militia tied to the Government of National Accord’s (GNA) interior ministry has been accused of abducting a Libyan anti-corruption official.
The abduction of Reda Gergab the administrative director of the audit bureau has prevented him from uncovering financial irregularities and the suspicious transactions of the ministry.
The audit bureau is an independent body appointed by the Libyan parliament in Tripoli. This body is a rare check on the misappropriation of funds within the country.
The interior ministry acknowledged the detention of Gergab and justified it by arguing that the public health crisis caused by COVID-19 required the dispensation of urgent funds “to rescue the Libyan people” and that the government is merely “carrying out responsibilities” undermined by the anti-corruption agency.
6 May 2020: Head of the GNA al-Sarraj calls for renewed UN talks as tensions rise
Faye al-Sarraj, the head of Libya’s UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) has called for renewal of UN-brokered talks to end divisions within the nation, as military tensions increase.
Sarraj has urged political forces to quickly resume UN-brokered talks to reach a comprehensive road map toward elections. This declaration follows Haftar’s statement where he declared the UN-brokered deal that created the Tripoli-based government “a thing of the past”, a pledged his authorities would move forwards to create a new government.
10 May 2020: Turkey warns Haftar forces against attacks on Turkish interests in Libya
The Turkish foreign ministry has warned against the Libyan General Khalifa Haftar’s actions warning that Turkey will consider Haftar and his militias to be legitimate targets if their attacks on Turkish interests and diplomatic missions in Libya continue.
In a statement, the Turkish foreign ministry said, “if our missions and our interests in Libya are targets, we will deem Haftar’s forces legitimate targets”.
18 May 2020: Libya’s GNA forces capture al-Watiya air base from Haftar militia
Libya’s GNA forces have captured the strategic al-Watiya air base from Khalifa Haftar. Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj declared “We proudly announce the liberation of al-Watiya air base from criminal militias and terrorist mercenaries” on Twitter.
The al-Watiya air base is located some 125km southwest of Tripoli and has been an important foothold for Haftar’s forces who used it to stage, coordinate and supply operations in western Libya.
23 May 2020: Pompeo pressed Libya’s Government for Ceasefire
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has pressured the Turkish-backed government of Libya (GNA) for a ceasefire and has criticized the flow of weapons as Tripoli continues against a year old offensive.
Pompeo over the phone to Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj reiterated the US opposition “to the continued level of weapons and munitions being brought into the country”. Despite not naming any countries regarding the envoy of weapons, the GNA’s key supplier has been Turkey who signed a pact with Tripoli in November.
A statement concluded that both Pompeo and Sarraj have “emphasized the importance of an immediate halt to the fighting and return to political dialogue”.
24 May 2020: LNA announced the capture of 12 Syrian fighters in Yarmou
12 Syrian fighters have been captured in the Yarmouk camp, south of Libya’s capital Tripoli. The announcement is the latest report of Syrian fighters being used in the continue war for Libya.
In a statement on Facebook by the LNA’s official Media War Information Division the Armed forced targeted fighters after ambushing and luring them into the camp, with several fighters being killed in the ambush.
Turkey has been accused of using its influence with Syrian opposition groups to channel mercenaries to Libya.
25 May 2020: ISIS claims attack in Taraghin against LNA
ISIS has stated that it was behind a blast in Taraghin, 780km south of Tripoli. The attack had no casualties. The explosives were concealed in a vehicle belonging to the Libyan National Army (LNA). According to an LNA military source, ISIS was growing more active in the south following the arrest of one of its commanders. Prior to this, the last ISIS led attack took place in May last year on a pipeline in the south.
27 May 2020: Russia denies military assistance in Libya
Russia has responded to US military accusations that they had deployed fighter aircraft to Libya as support to Russian mercenaries fighting for the eastern forces.
Russia’s Vladimir Dzhabarov the first deputy head of the upper house’s international affairs committee has stated that Russia has not sent military personnel to Libya and that the Russian upper house of parliament had not received a request to approve such a dispatch.
1 June 2020: Libyan National Army captures town of al-Asaba while Turkey sends more Syrians to Libya
The LNA has stated it has fully captured the Libyan town of al-Asaba in the west of the country. Previously, the GNA had reportedly taken the town from the LNA on May 21.
Meanwhile reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said that Turkey is sending 400 more Syrian fighters to aid the GNA.
11 June 2020: Turkey prevents check on warship on Libyan coast
A Turkish warship off the Libyan coast has refused the EU’s new naval mission enforcing the Libya arms embargo from checking a suspect freighter. A Greek navy ship working under Operation Irini tried to check the Turkish vessel, but the military escort warned it away.
Peter Stano, foreign affairs spokesman for the EU states that they are now in the process of further verification of information and reasons for this behaviour.
Operation Irini was created to halt the flow of arms into Libya. Since it has begun, project Irini has hailed more than 75 vessels for inspection, though Stano did not state how many had been successful.
Without the consent of the ship in question, or its escort, Operation Irini cannot board a vessel to inspect its cargo, Stano said. Instead, it refers cases to a panel of UN experts.
14 June 2020: France condemns Turkey’s aggressive intervention in Libya
France has said that Turkey’s involvement in the Libyan conflict is unacceptable and ‘aggressive’ as it accuses the nation of violating a UN arms embargo and sending half a dozen shops to the Libyan coast.
A senior Presidential official stated that “France is angered by an even more aggressive and insistent stance from Turkey, with seven Turkish ships deployed off the Libyan coast and violations of the arms embargo”. He expanded that the “Turks are behaving in an unacceptable manner and are exploiting NATO. France cannot just stand by”.
French President Emmanuel Macron has already held talks on the issue this week with US leader Donald Trump.
15 June 2020: Potential for Turkey to utilise two military bases in Libya
Turkey and Libya’s GNA are discussing the potential for Turkish use of two military bases within Libya, thereby enforcing a lasting Turkish presence in the south Mediterranean.
The potential bases: the Misrata naval base and the al-Watiya air base were recently recaptured by the GNA, however no solid decisions have been made.
17 June 2020: Talks for Turkish use of Libyan GNA military bases continue
Turkish government officials including the foreign and finance ministers arrived in Tripoli to meet Libya’s GNA. This is to continue the possible Turkish use of two military bases within Libya.
19 June 2020: Turkey criticises EU’s Operation Irini
Operation Irini, a UN backed arms embargo aimed at halting arms shipments into Libya has been called “not objective” by Turkey, a day after NATO said it would probe a naval incident with a French ship.
Turkish Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu said Operation Irini failed to meet the demands and concerns of the Tripoli government.
20 June 2020: Egypt confirms intervention stance on Libya
Egypt’s foreign minister has confirmed that any threat to Egyptian or Arab security will receive a response. This comes a day after Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said his country has a legitimate right to intervene in neighbouring Libya.
On Saturday, President al-Sisi ordered his army to stand ready to carry out any mission outside of the country, if necessary.
Sameh Shukri said Egypt is coordinating with regional and international powers active in Libya, stressing that a ‘military solution is the last option for Egypt to defend its security’.
20 June 2020: Turkey calls for Haftar forces to withdraw from Sirte
Turkey has called for Khalifa Haftar’s forces to withdraw from the strategic city of Sirte for a lasting ceasefire and has accused France of ‘jeopardising’ NATO security.
Ibrahim Kalin, the presidential spokesman, told AFP Turkey supports the position of the Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli, saying Sirte and Al-Jufra need to be evacuated by Haftar’s forces for a “sustainable ceasefire.”
21 June 2020: Libya National Forces refuse to give up Sirte to Turkey
The LNA commander Khalifa Haftar stated that his forces will never leave Sirte “no matter the sacrifice” he told Al Arabiya.
the LNA and the GNA have intensified clashes over Sirte since early June. However, Turkey who backs the GNA, has stated that for a sustainable ceasefire to be realised it requires Haftar’s forces to evacuate from the town.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has previously explained that his country has a legitimate right to intervene in Libya and has ordered the army to be prepared to carry out missions if the time comes. In a recent speech Sisi has concluded “If some people think they can cross the Sirte-Jufra frontline, this is a red line for us”.
23 June 2020: France warns Turkey they are playing a “dangerous game” in Libya
French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Turkey of playing a “dangerous game” within Libya that can no longer be tolerated.
Turkey’s foreign ministry has made a statement claiming that “France has a major responsibility for Libya being dragged into chaos by supporting illegal structures there for years, and therefore, it is actually France which playing a dangerous game in Libya”.
Such statements are a sign of the rising tensions between the two NATO allies.
June 25 2020: UAE affirms opposition to Turkey
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has affirmed its stance opposing Turkey and standing with France over the ongoing Libyan crisis. In a post by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash posted on twitter stating that:
“The UAE affirms its solidarity with France in the face of Turkey’s continuing offensive declarations & actions. We strongly condemn its dangerous behaviour & hostile action against a French navy vessel on a NATO mission to enforce the UN arms embargo this month”.
June 26 2020: LNA accuses Ankara of “Turkish colonisation”
An official spokesperson from the LNA, Ahmed al-Mismari has announced that the LNA is fighting an ongoing battle against terrorism and “Turkish colonisation”.
The LNA official continued his statement saying that the Libyan people comprehend and reject “Turkey’s expansionist ambitions to extend its influence over our country and the entire Arab region, with aggressive colonial motives, and to control and plunder our wealth to address its struggling economic crisis.”
Al-mismari further said that Turkey was able to do this after “agents and traitors opened the way for them to capture our land and desecrate it, through direct military intervention, and by sending mercenaries and terrorist fighters from various global terrorist organisations, via the deal of shame and disgrace.”
Turkey, who backs the GNA, has been ramping up its military intervention in Libya, with Ankara providing air support, weapons and allied fighters from Syria to the GNA.
June 30 2020: France’s Macron states that Turkey possesses “criminal responsibility” in Libya
French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Turkey of “criminal responsibility” regarding its involvement in Libya, continuing the escalating tensions between the two NATO allies.
Despite an agreement set between the foreign powers to end their meddling and respect the UN arms embargo, Turkey continues to increase its military presence.
Following talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin, Macron said “I think this a historic criminal responsibility for someone who claims to be a member of NATO”. Continuing, Macron further expanded that Turkey’s conduct in Libya is “unacceptable to us” and that the moment had come for Ankara to “urgently clarify” its stance.
2 July 2020: US to maintain policy of ‘active neutrality’ in Libya
Following a virtual meeting with the LNA the US has claimed that it will maintain a policy of “active neutrality” regarding Libya, the State Department announced.
“The US delegation stressed its opposition to all foreign interference in Libya and discussed the imperative of an immediate ceasefire and return to UN-facilitated security and political negotiations,”.
4 July 2020: Turkey secures interests in Libya
Turkey’s defence minister and military chief have signed a military agreement with the battalions fighting on behalf of the GNA who control Tripoli. Sources say the agreement aims to guarantee protection of Turkey’s interests in Libya whilst allowing Ankara to directly intervene in the country.
Sources added that the newly signed deal also includes the establishment of a Turkish military force and base in Libya.
5 July 2020: Libyan GNA controlled airbase attacked by LNA forces
Overnight, the Libyan airbase of Watiya was struck by warplanes. The base was recently recaptured by the GNA a military source with the LNA stated.
The strikes were carried out at the airbase south of Tripoli, by an ‘unknown aircraft’ the military source with the LNA said.
Following the attack, Turkey withdrew a substantial number of its garrison at the Watiya base as it suffered material losses in the attack.
An anonymous Turkish military source confirmed that is had suffered shelling and material losses from the strike, but no causalities were specified.
6 July 2020: Libyan’s in Benghazi protest ‘Turkish occupation’
Libyan’s in the city of Benghazi under LNA control, have staged a protest against Turkey’s intervention in the country. Protestors flocked to Benghazi’s al-Keesh square with banners of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with a cross over his face, whilst chanting against foreign occupation.
7 July 2020: ICC Delegation to investigate war crimes committed during siege of Tripoli
The Libyan Foreign Ministry announced that the International Criminal Court has agreed to dispatch an investigation team to examine the crimes of Hafatar’s militias committed during the 14-month siege of Tripoli. The Haftar regime has been accused of crimes against humanity such as massacres, kidnapping, and torture alongside war crimes such as civilian bombings as well as the targeting of hospitals. The probe is set to begin later in the month.
23 July 2020: Mass grave discovered, leading to 11 unidentified bodies found in Tarhuna
Eleven more bodies have been unearthed from mass graves in Tarhuna, the bodies are unidentified and were found blindfolded in the city which had been liberated from militias loyal to General. Khalifa Haftar.
Libya’s GNA said the bodies were found during an ongoing excavation work to expose the extent of war crimes committed by Haftar forces in the region. The bodies have been sent to forensics for autopsy.
Reports at the beginning of July suggested that a total of 208 bodies were discovered between June 5 and June 28, with hundreds of corpses being found in the city hospital, in a containerd belonging to the hospital and water well near the city.
The investigations were opened by the Libyan government who had repeatedly call on the United Nations (UN), the International Criminal Court (ICC), and other human rights groups to demand an international investigation into the mass graves.
10 August 2020: Russian military cargo planes located in Sirte
The Libyan army has reported that two Russian military cargo planes landed in the city of Sirte a strategic stronghold, currently under the control for forces loyal to Gen. Khalifa Haftar.
Gen. Abdulhadi Dirah, the army’s spokesman for the Sirte-Jufra Operations Unity said the planes had landed in Ghardabiya air base 15 kms south of the Mediterranean coastal city of Sirte.
No details of the cargo was provided; however, Libyan Army officials suspect ammunition to support the Haftar forces.
13 August 2020: US Ambassador to Libya discusses peace plans with Turkish Officials
According to a statement released by the US embassy in Tripoli, Richard Norland the US Ambassador to Libya has consulted with Turkish officials in Ankara regarding the “urgent need to support Libyan voices genuinely seeking an end to the conflict and return to UN facilitated political dialogue”.
Norland discussed ways to achieve a demilitarized solution in central Libya, with plans for a complete withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries while stressing the need to enable the nation’s Oil Corporation to resume.
21 August 2020: Libya’s Rival Forces Announce Ceasefire
The Internationally recognized government, Government of National Accord (GNA) has instructed the military to halt all combat operations in all Libyan territories. Fayez al-Sarraj, leader of the GNA based in Tripoli also called for elections in March of 2021. Though Gen Khalfia Haftar, leader of the Libyan National Army (LNA) has not issued a public statement yet, the speaker of the eastern-parliament, Anguila Saleh also announced a cease fire. This raises a glimpse of hope for the people of Libya who have not known peace for almost a decade now.
27 August 2020: Haftar’s forces breach ceasefire
First breach of the cease fire by Haftar’s militia which fired more than one dozen Grad rockets at army positions west of Sirte.
The attack did not cause casualties nor inflict damage upon any military hardware
29 August 2020: UN worried about happenings in Libya
United Nations have expressed worry about the power struggle within Tripoli and the unending protests over the poor economic conditions in Libya. Local militia backed by the UN supported government released fire on demonstrators and abducted others.
Initial reports from Tripoli indicated that the protest was not peaceful. The Prime Minister, Fayez Sarraj said the protestors “did not obtain necessary permits” for the rally. Both the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister, Fathi Bashaga accused the protesters of instigating violence and causing mayhem. However, the event was twisted when the Prime Minister suspended Bashaga and initiated an administrative investigation after Bashaga accused the government who, partnered with allied local militia were accused of attacking peaceful demonstrators. The interior Minister was later excluded from high profile security meetings in Tripoli. Bashaga, however, is demanding a public live hearing to expose the bare facts to the citizens of Libya.
11 September 2020: Protests in Benghazi
There was a huge protest in Benghazi following the continuous disruption of electricity supply and the poor living conditions faced by citizens. There are reports of burnt tires at Jamal Abdel Nasser street and Sidi Hussein downtown. This protest was believed to have started as a result of the diversion of fuel intended for the city’s power stations by local officers.
13 September 2020: Eastern- based government resigns amid continuous protests
Abdulla Thinni, leader of the eastern-based government resigned in an attempt to restore calm in the affected areas. After several days of widespread protest in Benghazi, he submitted his resignation letter to the speaker of the House of Representatives. The protest has led to the destruction of government buildings and many road blockages.
16 September 2020: Fayaz wants to hand over power
The head of UN-backed government in Tripoli, Fayaz Serraj declared his intention of handing over power to a new administration in October amid the peace talks on ending a nine year civil war in the country. Fayaz further noted that the peace talks between rival forces in Libya has led to a “new preparatory phase” to unify all government institutions and prepare for both parliamentary and presidential elections. He further declared to hand over his duties no later than the end of October at a televised speech in Tripoli.
18 September 2020: Conditional lifting of oil blockade announced
Khalifa Haftar has announced conditional lifting of the oil field blockade and ports by the Libyan National Army (LNA). Haftar stated that as part of the conditions, there should be a fair distribution of revenues and a guarantee that revenues will not be used to support terrorism. The oil field blockade is estimated to have cost Libya about $9.8 billion in revenue and has exacerbated electricity and fuel shortage in the country.
19 September 2020: Deputy Prime Minister, Matiq strikes deal with Haftar forces to lift oil blockade
Prime Minister Fayez Sarraj has stated that the GNA will not support a deal with his rival, Gen. Haftar to lift the months-long blockade on oil.
According to an office official, Prime Minister Sarraj opposed the final deal struck with commander Gen. Haftar, stating that “the Prime Minister did not give his approval to the final version of the deal”. The official told Associated Press with the condition of anonymity. Instead, deputy prime minister Ahmed Matiq has lead negotiations with Haftar’s son, Khalid to end the oil blockade.
According to Ahmed al-Mosmari, the spokesperson of Haftar’s Libyan Armed Forces, Matiq struck an agreement to distribute the nations petrodollars more equitably between its warring sides.
According to Jalel Harchaoui, a Libya expert at The Netherlands Institute of International Relations: “Matiq surrendered very loose, very generous concessions to the LAAF, especially in the realm of banking and finance,”. However, the deal does not address the scores of Russian mercenaries from Wagner, a Kremlin-linked private security company, stationed across oil fields that the National Oil Corporation says remain a barrier to the resumption of exports.
The deal has also been called a ‘farce’, with other believing the deal will fail as the prime minister, national oil company and the Central Bank of Tripoli were left out.
28 September 2020: Libya’s Rival Forces in Military Talks in Egypt
Both parties to the Libyan civil war have restarted military and security talks aimed at ending the crisis hanging over the head of the country. The meeting held in Egypt’s Red Sea Resort of Hurghada was directed towards reaching a form of settlement in the peace process. The United Nations mission in Libya issued a statement that confirmed the meeting of the military and police teams from both eastern and western Libya force. The outcome of this negotiation will be mainstreamed into the UN military talks.
29 September 2020: Libya Rivals Reach Preliminary Pact on Prisoner Exchange
Reports from the United Nations missions in Libya indicated that the talks between Libyan rivals in Egypt have ended with preliminary agreements to exchange prisoners, allow for land and air transits across Libya. The UN issued statement also described the peace talk as one that promoted a spirit of responsibility, transparency, and mutual respect between the two rival forces.
30 September 2020: Libya’s oil output reaches 300,000 barrels per day
Following a truce between the main factions in the OPEC member’s devastating civil war, Libya’s oil has seen a rebound. Though not operating to full capacity, ports and fields operating in Libya will increase exports and generate revenue for the country.
7 October 2020: Libyan rival groups agree on criteria for sovereign positions
The second round of peace talks in the Morroccan city of Bouznika has resulted in a criteria to select the heads of sovereign positions in the country. The dialogue saw five participants from the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) based in Tripoli, and five from the House of Representatives (HoR) based in the eastern city of Tobruk.
The delegation agreed to the implementation of Article 15 from the 2015, Sukhairat Agreement which states that the House of Representatives and the GNA must “reach a consensus on the occupants of the leadership positions of the following sovereign positions: Governor of the Central Bank of Libya, President of the Audit Bureau, Head of the Administrative Control Authority, Head of the Anti-Corruption Agency, and President And members of the High Commission for Elections, the President of the Supreme Court, and the Attorney General”.
9 October 2020: Libya’s GNA warns of attacks by Gen. Haftar
Libya’s GNA has warned of attacks being prepared by General Khalifa Haftar. This would not be the first time the General has breached the ceasefire with attacks occurring back in August.
Libya’s Defence Minister, Salah Eddine al-Namrush has stated that Haftar’s militias are preparing to attack the regions of Bani Walid, Giryan and Tarhuna. Al-Namrush has instructed regional commands and western region joint operation departments to be ready to repel the attacks by Haftar.
In a tweet, al-Namrush said the Libyan Army is adhering to the cease-fire that is supported by the international community, yet they are ready to retaliate against continuing violations by Haftar’s militias.
10 October 2020: US Ambassador to Libya spearheads effort for Libyan peace
US ambassador to Libya, Richard Norland has started a new diplomatic tour as he continues to lead the political process between the Libyan factions with the aim of reaching a settlement that will end the civil war.
Norland’s agenda has seen him moving between countries that are concerned with Libya, beginning with France, then to Egypt and ending in Turkey.
In a tweet Norland stated: “I’m continuing my travel in Ankara today for consultations with Turkey on how best to support de-escalation and the Libyan Political Dialogue in a constructive way that returns full sovereignty to Libya”.
The diplomatic mission appears to have resulted in the successful appeal to France of a American vision for a solution to the Libyan crisis, which aims to primarily put an end to Russia’s ambitions to establish a foothold in Libya. This aim was reflected in the statements last week by the French Foreign Minister, John Yves Le Drian , in which he accused Moscow and Ankara of seeking to “obstruct the path of the political settlement in Libya”.
17 to 15 November 2020: The UN convened the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum in Tunis
A gathering of 75 delegates from the country’s two rival assemblies as well as some handpicked independents. They agreed to form a temporary government until late 2021 national elections.
9 January 2021: UN Oversees Deployment of International Monitors
The UN announced that they are overseeing the limited deployment of international monitors to ensure the implementation of the ceasefire.
13 to 16 January 2021: Smaller UN meeting of the Advisory Committee
After a deadlock over the way voting would be conducted for the temporary government, the UN convened a meeting of 18 forum delegates, called the Advisory Committee, in Geneva.
18 to 19 January 2021: UN proposed voting system was approved by the 75-delegate group
30 January 2021: UN announces candidates for transitional Libyan government
The winner will lead the transitional government until an election later this year.
Delegates at the UN-directed forum elected a three-member council who will govern until the December elections.
14 March 2021: First Libyan Interim Government meeting
The interim government hosted its first meeting in March, headed by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah.
16 April 2021: UN Security Council approves cease-fire monitors for Libya
The UNSC agreed to send 60 cease-fire monitors to Libya through a resolution.
7 May 2021: Gunmen storm Presidential Council HQ
Dozens of armed men staged a show of force at a hotel used as a headquarters by Libya’s presidential council as the nation’s deep divisions resurfaced.
He claims that the foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya were destabilising and violating the UN arms embargo.
3 June 2021: Unidentified gunmen abducted NGO Libyan Red Crescent official
The Libyan Red Crescent official Mansour al-Maghrabi was abducted in Ajdabiya city.
6 June 2021: Islamic State suicide bombing
Few killed.
14 June 2021: Islamic State roadside bombing
Second bombing attack in the month.
14 June 2021: Fight in the House of Representatives
This fight was between Forces loyal to now dissolved UN-backed Govt of National Accord (GNA) and Haftar’s Arab Libyan Armed Forces (ALAF). They brawled after a Turkish delegation condemned the ALAF’s military parade.
17 June 2021: ALAF Launched new counterterrorism operation
Launched in the south west of Libya following IS attacks
19 June 2021: ALAF closed the Essen border crossing with Algeria
Following the recent military activity.
28 June – 1 July 2021: Political summit in Switzerland to break deadlock
Delegates of UN-backed Libyan Political Dialogue Forum 28 June-1 July met in Switzerland in bid to break deadlock in negotiations.
Early September 2021: Fighting broke out
Fighting on the 3 September broke out between rival Tripoli-based armed forces in the worst fighting this year.
14 September 2021: Military operation near Chad
Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar’s forces launched a military operation against Chadian rebels in Tarbu.
22 December 2021: Elections Postponed
The elections due to be held on the 24th December have been indefinitely postponed by the Interim Government. They claim that this is due to ongoing disputes between the candidates over who is allowed to stand.
26 December 2021: UK accused of defending corruption
The UK attracted attention following their decision to call for the Interim Government of Libya to remain in power until a new date has been set for elections.
Incumbent PM Dbeibeh rejected the move, vowing to remain in his post until national elections are held.
11 February 2022: Rallies against the HoR begin
Main streets in Tripoli and Misrata witnessed demonstrations rejecting the HoR decision to establish Bashaga’s new transitional government.
The demonstrators demanded the overthrow of the HoR and the High Council of State (HCS). They also called for the maintenance of the National Unity Government, led by Dbeibah.
Further, they demanded that elections would be held on time and in accordance with the Geneva Agreement.
Support has now split between two Prime Ministers and both sides have gathered to show their support. On Saturday joint armed forces from Misrata, Khoms and Zlitan converged on Tripoli’s Martyrs Square with about 300 armed vehicles.
13 April 2022: Rival officials meet in Cairo
The two groups began talks in Egypt to arrange elections in Libya. The UN Special Advisor advised that thetalks are due to end on 20 April.
23 April 2022: Armed clashes damage oil storage tanks
Armed clashes at the western port of Zawiya have damaged several storage tanks.
17 May 2022: PM Fathi Bashagha forces entered Tripoli
PM entered the city in an attempt to instal his government in the capital. PM Abdelhamid Dabaiba’s forces counter attacked. One soldier was killed.
15 – 20 May 2022: UN convened a second round of talks
Meeting was held in Cairo with participants failing to agree on the roadmap to elections. Talks are to resume on the 11 June.
12 – 20 June 2022: HoR and Tripoli-based High State Council meet
Delegates from the HoR and High State Council met in Egypt for the third round of discussions. Failed to agree.
22 June 2022: Heavy fighting between rival GNU-affiliated militias
Killed three combatants. Fighting took place in Zawiyet Al-Dahmani.
23 June 2022: Clashes at a military base
Armed conflict near a military base in Tripoli.
28 – 29 June 2022: UN-Sponsored talks
UN-sponsored talks between the rival assemblies in Switzerland failed to make any progress.
1 July 2022: Protestors storm House of Representatives
Protestors storm the HoR following protests over difficult living conditioons and politician’s lack of consensus over the next elections.
21 – 22 July 2022: Conflict broke out in Tripoli neighbourhoods
Fighting between rival factions. 16 people reported to have been killed
31 July 2022: Crude oil production returns to 1.2 million barrels a day
First time production levels have recovered to pre-force majeure levels.
5 – 6 August 2022: Small conflicts near Tripoli airport
Clashes between opposed Bashagha-aligned forces and militia loyal to Dabaiba near airport road in Tripoli.
24 August 2022: Bashagha called on Dabaiba to step down and peacefully hand over power
Bashagha called on Dabaiba to step down and peacefully hand over power to avoid bloodshed; Dabaiba rejected call.
25 August 2022: Dabaiba urged for elections
Dabaiba urged head of Tripoli-based consultative High State Council, Khalid Al-Mishri, and HoR Speaker Aguila Saleh to approve constitutional basis for elections.
26 -27 August 2022: Fighting in the capital
The bloodiest fighting in years broke out in capital Tripoli, raising prospect of a return to full-blown war. Forces aligned with Tobruk-based House of Representatives (HoR)-appointed PM Bashagha failed to take control of capital and oust Tripoli-based govt of PM Dabaiba; 32 people reportedly killed and 159 injured.
2 – 3 September 2022: Small clashes
Renewed clashes between rival armed factions 2-3 Sept broke out in Warshafana area west of Tripoli.
25 – 26 September 2022: Fighting in Zawiya
Fighting in Zawiya town, west of Tripoli, allegedly over fuel trafficking.
17 October 2022: Military parade in southern city of Sebha
Military parade in southern city of Sebha, East-based military commander Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar 17 Oct called for popular “rebellion” against “governmental failure”; said his forces “are ready to protect the people in their uprising”.
22 October 2022: Forces loyal to Tripoli-based government held televised military exercise
Forces loyal to Tripoli-based govt 22 Oct held televised military exercise in Dabaiba’s presence.
Aguila Saleh and Khaled al-Mishri, head of Tripoli-based High State Council, 20-21 Oct met in Morocco. They advised that they had agreed to take steps to unify rival governments and resume dialogue on holding elections.
21 October 2022: Dabaiba rejected notion of “parallel paths”
Dabaiba 21 Oct rejected “parallel paths
Libyan Civil War: A Timeline Of Atrocities
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