Escalating Military Movements in Libya: Renewed Conflict on the Horizon?
Militia Mobilization Near Tripoli Raises Fears of New Clashes.
Watan-Libya is witnessing rapidly evolving military developments amid its ongoing political crisis. Armed forces affiliated with the so-called “Al-Marsa Brigade – Death Unit” in Misrata have announced the deployment of several brigades toward the capital, Tripoli. This military maneuver, involving a significant amount of weaponry and troops, raises concerns over the possibility of renewed armed clashes in a country plagued by divisions and endless conflicts.
Although the brigade’s leadership has not officially disclosed the true motives behind this movement, it cited “enhancing field presence” and “raising preparedness to maintain security and stability.” However, these justifications have done little to ease fears that another round of fighting could erupt between rival factions competing for power in Tripoli and its surrounding areas.
Salah Badi’s Role and His History of Violence
The forces leading this movement are commanded by Salah Badi, a Libyan militia leader who has been under international sanctions by the United Nations Security Council since 2011. Badi is accused of being one of the key figures obstructing Libya’s political resolution. He was previously a leading commander of the “Al-Somoud Brigade” (also known as “Pride of Libya”), as well as the Al-Marsa Brigade, which is affiliated with the Central Libya Shield Forces.
A November 2018 UN Security Council report held Badi responsible for orchestrating several armed operations against the former Government of National Accord (GNA). He also led deadly assaults on Tripoli, most notably the August 2018 clashes, which left 115 people dead. During these battles, his forces used tanks and heavy artillery, exacerbating Libya’s fragile security situation and further complicating the country’s political landscape.
Echoes of Past Conflicts
Badi’s latest movements revive memories of 2016 and 2017, when he launched violent attacks in an attempt to restore the unrecognized Salvation Government, led by Khalifa al-Ghweil, to power. Given his history of aggression, his latest military activities are causing regional and international concern, especially amid deepening divisions among Libya’s armed factions.
International Reactions and Uncertain Future
With these escalating tensions, the international community is closely monitoring the situation in Libya. Key questions remain:
- Will these movements push Libya further into chaos and conflict?
- How will they impact the fragile political and security landscape?
- Can diplomatic efforts prevent another cycle of violence?
As the country remains deeply fractured, the risk of renewed clashes looms large, threatening to drag Libya back into instability and prolonged conflict.
