Armed clashes have erupted in the western Libyan city of Gharyan between the 555th Infantry Brigade and the 444th Combat Brigade, in a sign of escalating tensions between the two factions.
According to eyewitnesses, fighters from the 555th Infantry Brigade targeted military vehicles belonging to the 444th Combat Brigade, which is commanded by Mahmoud Hamza, near the Al-Heera checkpoint on the outskirts of Gharyan.
Sources confirmed that three members of the 444th Brigade were captured by 555th Brigade forces during the incident.
This latest development follows an earlier confrontation just days ago, when fighters affiliated with the 444th Combat Brigade allegedly targeted a vehicle belonging to the 555th Infantry Brigade in the Ghout Al-Reeh area, further fueling hostilities.
The city of Gharyan has seen a recent surge in military activity, raising concerns about the potential for broader armed conflict in western Libya, especially amid ongoing political fragmentation and the absence of unified security institutions.
The Libyan public and international observers alike continue to monitor the situation closely, amid fears that such confrontations may destabilize the fragile security balance in the region.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar 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.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
