The National Institution for Human Rights in Libya (NIHRL) has called on residents of Janzour, west of Tripoli, to remain indoors as armed clashes continue in the area.
In a statement, NIHRL urged citizens and residents near the conflict zones to avoid movement and exercise maximum caution due to ongoing random gunfire and security unrest.
Safety Warnings for Residents
The institution specifically advised residents to stay away from windows and main facades of homes, stressing that unnecessary movement could put lives at risk.
NIHRL also recommended that people living in high-risk areas reduce their outdoor activity until the situation stabilizes.
Road Safety Alerts
The statement further warned motorists using the coastal highway linking Tripoli and Al-Zawiya to avoid areas affected by the fighting. Travelers were urged to remain cautious until calm is restored to reduce the risk of casualties.
The escalation in Janzour highlights the fragile security environment in and around the Libyan capital, where rival armed groups frequently clash, disrupting civilian life.
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.
