Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA), asserted his commitment to building a prosperous future for Benghazi. This vision is rooted in a strategy focused on reconstructing infrastructure and urban planning.
Haftar participated in the “Reconstruction of Benghazi” ceremony held at the Suleiman Al-Dharrat Complex on Saturday evening. During this ceremony he highlighted that the government, appointed by the House of Representatives (HoR), is working on tangible projects to develop Benghazi. This statement appeared to be a veiled critique of the interim Government of National Unity (GNU), which he implied had not produced visible results.
The celebration coincided with the inauguration of several bridges in Benghazi, which has been designated as the Capital of Islamic Culture for the year 2024.
Haftar emphasised the ongoing coordination and cooperation between the armed forces and the Libyan government in urban development, following well-thought-out plans. He believes that Libya is currently in a transformative phase, marked by resurgence and urban development, signaling the initiation of larger and more significant projects.
The LNA Commander expressed his belief that Benghazi, resilient against terrorism, deserves significant developmental efforts to become a hub for visitors. He noted that Benghazi’s selection as the Capital of Islamic Culture is a fitting tribute to a city that has now become a center of leadership, reconstruction, and a hub for knowledge, science, and arts.
Haftar concluded by calling for support in education and cultural, theatrical, and creative movements, considering them integral parts of the national project he seeks to achieve.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Moammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.