Situation: 

• On 3 February 2026, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, was assassinated at his home in Zintan (approximately 136 km / 85 miles southwest of Tripoli). 

• Four masked unknown gunmen stormed the residence, disabled security cameras, engaged him in a direct confrontation, and shot him dead.  

• His office described the incident as a “cowardly and treacherous assassination.” The Libyan Attorney General’s office confirmed death by gunshot wounds via forensic examination and has opened an official investigation to identify the perpetrators.  

• No specific group has claimed responsibility. 

Latest Events in Libya: 

• Saif al-Islam’s political team and advisers announced the killing via social media and issued a formal statement condemning the attack. 

• Former High State Council head Khaled al-Mishri and others called for an “urgent and transparent investigation.” 

• Prosecutors in Tripoli are actively working to identify suspects, the 444th Infantry Brigade has denied any involvement. 

• Analysts note that Gaddafi had been living semi-underground in Zintan since his 2017 release under amnesty, while maintaining low-profile political ambitions (including a declared 2021 presidential bid that contributed to the collapse of planned elections). 

• As of today (5 February), the body has been transferred from Zintan to Bani Walid. The funeral and burial are scheduled for tomorrow, Friday 6 February, next to the grave of his brother Khamis Gaddafi. 

Impact: 

• Removal of a symbolic figure who still commanded loyalty among certain pro-Gaddafi factions (particularly in eastern and central Libya), potentially reducing morale in those circles while eliminating one perceived obstacle to future elections. 

• Heightened risk of retaliatory violence or targeted attacks by pro-Gaddafi elements or rival militias. 

• Further illustration of Libya’s persistent militia-driven insecurity and the fragility of personal protection even for high-profile individuals. 

• Possible short-term political vacuum or shift in dynamics between the Tripoli-based GNU and eastern authorities, though major immediate disruption to the current power deadlock is not yet evident. 

Recommendations: 

• Limit or cancel non-essential movements in Zintan and surrounding western mountain areas. 

• Individuals or organizations near Zintan should maintain heightened vigilance, review personal security protocols, and have contingency plans ready. 

• Avoid gatherings that could be perceived as political or pro-Gaddafi commemorations, as these may become flashpoints. 

• Monitor reliable local and international sources (Al Jazeera, Reuters, official Libyan statements) for updates on the investigation or any emerging threats. 

• Ensure communication channels with in-country contacts, embassies, and evacuation support are open and tested. 

• Review and update organizational or personal evacuation plans, especially for personnel in western Libya. 

Need more information? Contact our team.