Jan 1, 2024. Posted by Balkan Periscope - Hellas
A Libyan
militia announced the death of a fighter during fierce clashes with another
militia, in the Tajoura suburb of Tripoli, according to local media
The Rahba Al-Dor brigade declared a state of general alert, urging all its units and members to mobilize, following an attack on one of the headquarters of the 51st Brigade on Monday morning.
Military
vehicles and armed cars were deployed around the area after the killing of
Mohamed Al-Zanad.
Local
residents reported intermittent gunfire and the presence of dozens of military
vehicles, leading to the closure of the Coastal Road.
Libya has
witnessed a troubling surge in armed conflicts among militias across its
western regions throughout 2023, exacerbating the nation’s long-standing
crisis, and hampering efforts toward democratic transition. These conflicts,
which have been a continuous struggle for power and influence, have resulted in
numerous civilian casualties, and significant destruction of both public and
private properties.
The Libyan
people and the international community have grown increasingly concerned, as
these recurrent skirmishes threaten the stability brought about by the
ceasefire agreement signed in October 2020. Moreover, the ongoing violence has
disrupted public life and negatively influenced the political trajectory of the
country, including the crucial process of conducting national elections.
Key
incidents throughout the year highlight the severity of the situation. In
October, Gharyan, a city in western Libya, became a battlefield for the 111th
Battalion and the Support and Stability Apparatus, one of the most powerful
Tripoli-based government-recognized militias, leading to numerous casualties.
In August
2023, Tripoli witnessed heavy clashes between the Special Deterrence Force and
the 444th Combat Brigade. This confrontation resulted in 27 deaths over 100
injuries, and significant damage to public infrastructure.
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