Clashes erupt again in Tripoli after Libyan PM says security restored (2)

TRIPOLI, LIBYA - MAY 14, 2025: Armed clashes resumed on Wednesday, May 14, in several areas of Libya’s capital, Tripoli, including Ayn Zara, Ras Hassan, and Bin Ashour. Local media reported that flights at Mitiga International Airport have been suspended due to the escalation, while the Libyan Red Crescent raised its alert level to maximum, and Tripoli University suspended classes again. This latest report of clashes follow the violence that erupted in the capital on Monday, particularly in the Salah al-Din and Abu Salim neighborhoods, triggered by the death of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, who heads the Stability Support Apparatus affiliated with the Presidential Council, according to Libyan media. On Tuesday, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh said that security was restored in Tripoli. The premier called for ending the presence of “irregular groups and reinforcing the principle that there is no place in Libya except for state institutions, and no authority except that of the law." Libya has remained in turmoil since 2011, when longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi was ousted after four decades in power. Libya continues to face sporadic security crises fueled by a political divide that has persisted since 2022. Two rival governments claim authority: the internationally recognized Government of National Unity, led by Dbeibah in Tripoli, which controls the west, and a parallel government based in Benghazi, led by Osama Hammad, appointed by the House of Representatives, which controls the eastern parts of the country and some cities in the south. Years of UN-led efforts to hold national elections have stalled, prolonging the country’s political fragmentation and armed conflict.(Footage by AA /Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)