Latest news with #Fezzan
Libya Review
12-08-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libyan Army Targets Criminal Hideouts in the South
The Libyan National Army (LNA) announced it had seized large quantities of weapons and ammunition in a major security operation in the south. The raids, conducted by the 101st Infantry Battalion and the 676th Infantry Battalion of the LNA's ground forces, targeted several locations in Wadi al-Shati municipality. According to the LNA, the operation focused on houses and farms allegedly used by criminal elements as storage facilities for arms and ammunition. The seized items included light, medium, and heavy weapons, as well as Grad rocket launchers and multiple rocket system bases. The LNA said the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen security and stability in southern Libya. It forms a broader campaign to dismantle criminal networks, combat smuggling, and prevent illegal armed activity in the region. Wadi al-Shati, located in the Fezzan region, has long faced security challenges, including the presence of armed groups and smuggling routes that connect Libya's southern borders to the Sahara. Analysts say such operations are crucial to curbing the movement of weapons that can fuel conflict in other parts of the country. The LNA's campaign in the south comes amid broader national efforts to reassert control over territories affected by instability since Libya's 2011 conflict. Military sources emphasised that the crackdown is also aimed at deterring potential threats to national security, including armed militias and extremist groups. Local residents expressed cautious optimism about the security measures, though some warned that lasting stability will require more than just military operations. They called for parallel investment in infrastructure, public services, and job opportunities to address the root causes of instability in the south. The LNA confirmed that the seized weapons are being secured and investigated to determine their origins and intended use. Authorities have vowed to continue such operations until all illegal armed activity in the region is eliminated. Tags: libyaLibyan armyLNAmilitiasWeapons
Libya Review
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libya Showcases Cultural Heritage at Desert Festival in France
The Friends of Fezzan Tourism & Heritage Association brought a vibrant taste of Libyan Saharan culture to the International Desert Festival in Tours, France, held from June 13 to 15. The event showcased traditional music, artisanal crafts, and culinary delights, immersing visitors in the rich heritage of the Libyan Fezzan desert. Organized by the French-based association Les Amis du Fezzan, the exhibition aimed to strengthen cultural ties and raise awareness of Fezzan's unique natural and historical legacy. As desert regions like Fezzan gain international attention for tourism and heritage preservation, initiatives like this festival help spotlight the region's traditional identity. The association's presence highlighted ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Libya's desert areas—featuring educational workshops, handcraft displays, and traditional musical performances. It also served as a platform for potential partnerships to support heritage conservation and increased cultural tourism. This participation underlines Fezzan's growing visibility on the international cultural stage, fostering cross-national engagement and dialogue centered on desert culture and sustainable heritage tourism. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges. Tags: Desert TourismFezzanHeritagelibya
Libya Review
29-05-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
Will Russia Attack Europe Through Libya?
Russia is reportedly preparing to install medium and long-range missile systems at the Sebha military base in southern Libya, aiming them at Europe, according to a source cited by Agenzia Nova. The base, located in the Fezzan region under General Khalifa Haftar's control, is seen as a strategic launch site due to its proximity to European territories such as Lampedusa. The plan, said to be in an advanced stage, is allegedly supported by Russia and Belarus. The report claimed that Haftar, together with his son Saddam, is reportedly using the recent chaos in Tripoli to push towards the capital. This follows the assassination of Abdulghani al-Kikli, known as 'Ghaniwa', leader of the Stability Support Apparatus, by Brigade 444 – a militia loyal to Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbaiba. The killing sparked one of the most violent escalations in Tripoli in years. Sources claim the Russians are backing Haftar's expansion and may deploy advanced air defence systems like the Tor-M1 to protect the Sebha installation. The system, recently displayed in Benghazi, can intercept enemy missiles, drones and aircraft. Another layer to the alleged plan includes a proposed transfer of one million Palestinians from Gaza to Libya, with the mediation of Turkey and possible US backing. This transfer would reportedly involve Palestinians who do not support Hamas, and those resettled in Libya could receive citizenship from Haftar in exchange for political loyalty and control of Libya's oil assets. A second relocation, involving around 800,000 Gazans, could go to Syria under a separate US-brokered arrangement with the new Syrian leadership. While the reports remain unverified, they have sparked speculation about regional re-alignments involving Russia, Turkey, the US, and Gulf countries. Cyrenaican outlets have also reported Haftar's troops joining NATO's 'Anatolian Phoenix 25' exercises in Turkey. Between 1,500 and 2,000 LNA fighters are allegedly training there and acquiring Turkish drones. Tags: europekhalifa haftarlibyaMissilesRussiaSebha
