A wave of protests has swept through the Libyan capital Tripoli, targeting the UN-backed Government of National Unity (GNU) led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, following renewed violent clashes between rival armed groups.
According to Libya Press, the largest demonstration took place in Souq al-Jumaa, one of Tripoli’s most densely populated neighborhoods, which was severely affected by overnight fighting. Dozens of residents took to the streets demanding the resignation of the Dbeibeh government and an end to the violence. Similar protests occurred in Fashloum, where demonstrators blamed the GNU for the bloodshed and expressed solidarity with civilians in the conflict zones.
In Tajoura, on the eastern outskirts of Tripoli, protesters blocked roads and set tires on fire in a show of defiance.
Despite an official ceasefire declared by the GNU’s Ministry of Defense, sporadic gunfire continued throughout the day, Al Wasat reported. Several areas experienced power outages, and the Ministry of Education extended the suspension of school classes and exams due to ongoing security concerns.
At least six people were killed and around 70 injured in the latest violence, including civilians.
The unrest began on Monday evening, when fighting broke out in southern Tripoli between the 444th Brigade, led by Mahmoud Hamza, and the Stability Support Apparatus, after its leader, Abdelghani al-Kikli (also known as "Gheniwa"), was reportedly killed at the 444th Brigade’s headquarters. Sources suggest al-Kikli may have been lured there under false pretenses.
The GNU’s Defense Ministry later claimed it had restored order in the city. In response to the violence, Prime Minister Dbeibeh announced a series of reforms targeting the capital’s security structure, including the disbanding of the Deterrence Forces led by Abdelraouf Kara.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Reiner Ehlers/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on materials from TASS