Deadly clashes erupt in Tripoli after militia leader killed

Violent clashes erupted in Tripoli, the capital of Libya, on Monday night following the reported killing of a prominent militia leader, sparking widespread unrest and prompting authorities to enforce a citywide lockdown.

Abdelghani al-Kikli, head of the influential Support and Stability Apparatus, was reportedly killed during the violence. His death was confirmed by Libyan news outlets Al-Ahrar and Al-Wasat, according to AFP.

Gunfire and explosions echoed across several districts from around 9:00 PM (1900 GMT). The Interior Ministry of Libya’s UN-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU) issued an urgent appeal for all residents to stay indoors for their safety.

As fighting intensified, air traffic at Tripoli airport was suspended, and local authorities announced the closure of schools in several areas until further notice.

According to local reports, the clashes took place in southern Tripoli, involving rival factions from Tripoli and Misrata, a coastal city located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) east of the capital.

Libya has remained unstable since the 2011 uprising that overthrew Muammar Gaddafi, with power divided between competing governments in the west and east. Armed groups continue to battle for control, despite occasional ceasefires and international efforts at peace.

In one of the deadliest recent flare-ups, clashes between two powerful militias in August 2023 left 55 people dead.