Armed militias move toward Tripoli, raising fears of renewed conflict in Libya

Armed convoys advanced toward the Libyan capital early on July 11 from the cities of Zintan and Misrata, signaling a possible escalation of conflict amid mounting tensions between rival militias.

Videos circulating on social media showed columns of armored vehicles and tanks moving toward Tripoli from both cities, as reinforcements reportedly sought to support forces loyal to Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, head of Libya’s internationally recognized Government of National Unity (GNU), Caliber.Az reports per Al Arabia.

These forces are preparing to confront the Deterrence and Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS), a powerful militia opposed to Dbeibah’s administration and in control of key sites including Mitiga Airport and its adjacent military complex.

Dbeibah recently threatened to take military action against what he described as “outlaw militias” to reassert government authority over strategic infrastructure such as airports, ports, and prisons. The warning was widely seen as directed at the CTS, heightening fears of a major armed confrontation.

The influx of troops and heavy weaponry into Tripoli’s streets has alarmed residents and drawn concern from the international community, as Libya’s fragile ceasefire between armed groups appears at risk of collapse.

Tripoli has experienced months of unrest following clashes between militias loyal to Dbeibah and rival groups, including the Stabilization Support Apparatus, whose leader Abdel Ghani al-Kikli was recently killed. The escalating tensions come amid ongoing political deadlock in Libya, where attempts by the United Nations and international actors to broker a lasting peace have so far failed.

By Sabina Mammadli