On Saturday, the Supreme Council of Fezzan Sheikhs reaffirmed its full support for the Libyan National Army (LNA), commending its efforts in combating smugglers and foreign mercenaries in southern Libya.
The council expressed deep condolences for the soldiers who lost their lives in recent clashes in Qatrun, vowing to withdraw tribal protection from anyone threatening the region’s security.
In a strongly worded statement, Fezzan’s tribal leaders praised the LNA general commander Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, and the military for restoring order to southern Libya, which had long suffered from crime, lawlessness, and armed smuggling networks.
They declared their commitment to preserving the stability, security, and economic progress achieved under the military’s presence, stating that they will not tolerate any attempts to undermine these gains.
The council issued a clear warning that any individual or group involved in destabilizing activities, including smuggling, armed violence, and collusion with foreign mercenaries, would lose their tribal protection.
Southern Libya has been a hotspot for organized crime, cross-border trafficking, and militant activity, prompting ongoing military campaigns to eliminate security threats. The LNA has intensified crackdowns on illegal armed groups, smuggling routes, and foreign mercenary activity, strengthening its hold over key areas.
With tribal leaders now publicly backing the military’s mission, the balance of power in the south shifts further in favor of security forces, as local communities align with law enforcement to uphold stability and prevent criminal elements from exploiting tribal networks. This marks a significant moment in Libya’s ongoing efforts to secure its vast and often volatile southern territories.
