Libya SITREP: 13 May 2025 – 11:00

by | May 13, 2025 | Contingency, Libya, Security

As of 1100, 13 May 2025:

Situation:

  • Abdul Ghani al-Kikli, head of the Presidential Council’s Stability Support Apparatus (SSA) in Tripoli, was killed with pictures of his body circulating online.
  • Armed clashes escalated on Monday evening between armed brigades affiliated with the Government of National Unity (GNU) and the SSA.
  • Reports indicated that the GNU was dispatching additional forces from Misrata.

Latest Events in Libya:

  • Mitiga airport evacuated its civilian aircraft.
  • Tripoli’s Ministry of the Interior called on all citizens in the western areas of Tripoli to stay home for their safety amid tension. Later announcements called for citizens to return to work as normal.
  • Fighting and troop movements occurred in the Abu Salim and Mashrou neighborhoods. 
  • Soldiers from the 111th and 444th brigades stormed the SSA headquarters, with gunfire and explosions heard in various parts of the city. 
  • Reports said that at least six people were injured. 
  • The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said that it is alarmed by the unfolding security situation in Tripoli and called for de-escalation. 
  • The head of the Libyan Government of National Unity, Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, announced this morning, Tuesday, that the Ministries of Interior and Defense had succeeded in establishing security in the capital, Tripoli. 

Impact:

  • Armed clashes between rival factions will likely cause significant disruptions, including road closures and restricted access to essential services. 
  • An increased security presence is highly likely in Tripoli, Misrata, and Abu Salim areas, including roadblocks and various other formal and informal security checks.
  • Some services, schools, and private businesses are electing to remain closed for the time being.
  • Continued buildup of various forces risks further clashes.
  • Border crossings with Tunisia were reported to be reopened and operating as normal the morning of 13 May.

Recommendations:

  • Limit or cancel movements around Tripoli and to other cities.
  • Avoid non-essential travel.
  • Avoid crowds or large gatherings, especially of armed individuals.
  • Confirm communication and shelter-in-place plans with in-country and external personnel.
  • Maintain situational awareness, including monitoring reliable information sources for updates.

Need more information? Contact our team.