Armed clashes broke out in the Al-Dabbabsha district of Sabratha, western Libya, on the morning of Eid al-Adha, causing multiple casualties and heightening fears among local residents.
According to local sources, the fighting involved medium and heavy weaponry exchanged between rival armed groups operating in the city. The violence has so far claimed the life of Nouri Al-Fathali. Earlier, a young man, Omar Murad Al-Dabbashi, was killed by a stray bullet amid the ongoing confrontations.
The unrest has sparked widespread panic across Sabratha, with civilians trapped indoors during what is typically a time of celebration and family gatherings.
In an official statement, the Sabratha Municipal Council confirmed it was in direct contact with the Security Directorate, the National Support Force, and the Counter-Threats Agency. The Council said their coordinated efforts had succeeded in brokering a temporary ceasefire and de-escalating the violence.
Meanwhile, the Sabratha branch of the Libyan Red Crescent issued an urgent plea for residents to stay inside their homes and avoid conflict zones. The organization also called on all armed factions to refrain from harming civilians, warning that “the safety of citizens is a red line.”
The clashes come amid ongoing instability in western Libya, where rival militias frequently engage in turf wars despite efforts to establish national reconciliation and lasting peace.
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.
