Latest news with #LNA
Libya Review
4 days ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Haftar Inaugurates Military City as Foundation for Libya's Army Reform
On Wednesday, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA), affirmed that the newly inaugurated 'Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar Military City' represents a significant leap in Libya's military development, emphasizing its role as a cornerstone in building a modern, professional armed force. Haftar made these remarks during a high-level visit to the military city, located in eastern Libya, alongside House of Representatives Speaker Ageela Saleh, Libyan Government-designate Prime Minister Osama Hammad, and senior military officials. The inspection tour took place on the sidelines of a major military parade marking the 11th anniversary of Operation Dignity (Al Karama). According to the General Command's media office, the delegation toured multiple facilities, including advanced training centers, accommodation units, command buildings, and logistics hubs. The complex has been equipped with state-of-the-art systems and infrastructure designed to meet international military standards and support the long-term development of Libya's armed forces. Haftar praised Lieutenant General Khaled Haftar, Chief of Staff for Security Units, for his key role in overseeing the planning, execution, and supervision of the project. He emphasized that the outcome reflects a clear vision for a disciplined, well-trained army capable of protecting Libya's sovereignty and stability. 'This military city is not just a set of buildings; it is a message of our determination to build a unified, capable national force,' said Haftar. 'It is a model of organization and ambition, and it represents the future of Libya's defense strategy.' The city includes specialized centers for combat training, tactical simulations, medical services, and intensive military education, making it one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the country. Haftar added that the military city aligns with his broader strategy to rebuild Libya's armed forces on solid institutional foundations, emphasizing professionalism, operational readiness, and advanced technical capabilities. Tags: benghazikhalifa haftarlibyaLibyan armyMilitary City
Al Arabiya
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Arabiya
Foreign competition does not serve Libya's interests
Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar's meeting on May 10 at the Kremlin with Russian President Vladimir Putin drew attention once more to the Libyan strongman's ever-growing ties to Moscow. Visiting Russia to attend the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the country's victory over Nazi Germany, the commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA) also met with several top Russian military figures, including Defense Minister Andrey Belousov. For a while, Haftar's Russia connection has been a matter of great concern to the US and Europe, which led to a renewed focus on Libya and paving to way for an unprecedented flurry of US contacts with officials from western and eastern parts of the country. In early May, the minister of defense of the Tripoli government, Abdulsalam Al-Zoubi, was received in the Pentagon. He was the first Libyan defense official to hold talks in Washington in years. Saddam Haftar, the son and presumably pre-ordained successor to Haftar, was also welcomed for a meeting with several senior US officials at the State Department, in late April. During the same period, Haftar's other son, Belqassim, was the guest of honor at a business forum in Washington. As part of a well calibrated effort to treat Tripoli and Benghazi as equals in the ongoing diplomatic-military dance, the USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20), a US 6th Fleet vessel docked last April in both ports of Tripoli and Benghazi. In February, two US Africa Command (Africom) generals visited Libya where they met with leaders in Tripoli and Benghazi, including Khalifa and Saddam Haftar, as well as GNU Prime Minister Abdulahamid Dbeibah. The State Department summed up Washington's objectives as continuing 'to engage officials from western and eastern Libya and to support Libyan efforts to unify their military institutions as Libyans secure their autonomy.' Behind the US outreach, as explained by US Army Lieutenant General John W Brennan, Deputy Commander of Africom, there was before anything else a US desire 'to defeat malign actors who threaten North Africa and US security interests.' Fears of 'malign actors' unmistakably meant Russia. US re-engagement has in fact mirrored NATO's realization, as expressed by the alliance's May 2024 independent expert report about its southern neighborhood strategy, that 'Libya deserves particular attention' in North Africa. Part of that strategy was to court Haftar in the hope of weaning him away from relying on the Russians. Haftar's ties to Moscow and his frequent meetings in Benghazi with Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov were a source of utmost concern. The US even sent two B-52 Stratofortress bombers to 'conduct Libyan military tactical air controllers' near Sirte. In August 2024, AFRICOM Commander, General Michael Langley, met Haftar in Benghazi. There is however a lot of skepticism about Washington's ability to win over Haftar, considering his deeply-vested interests with Moscow. Nevertheless the US seemed willing to takes its chances with the LNA commander as concerns about Russian encroachment mushroomed since Moscow started redeploying troops and materiel from Syria to Libya, in December 2024, hence making the North African country its de facto launch-pad for the rest of the continent. With nearly 2,000 to 2,500 Russian 'Africa Corps' troops reportedly present in several military bases in Libya, NATO saw a growing threat to the security of Europe especially that Russia's military deployment was coupled with anti-Western disinformation campaigns, which could only make worse NATO's image problem. The Atlantic alliance was often blamed for the legacy of chaos and strife in Libya and the Sahel since it backed the uprising which toppled long-time ruler Muammar Gadhafi in 2011 but subsequently bailed out without a proper exit-strategy. Now, Western strategists see a Russian threat in the Mediterranean including a naval presence in Libya and possible attempts to weaponize migration flows across the sea from Europe. Moscow is also suspected of using Libya as a launchpad for activities south of the Sahara. During the last three years, the West's position in the Sahel region has deteriorated while Russia moved in. France was pushed out of Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal and Chad, while the US had to depart its anti-terrorism base in Niger. The competition between international and regional powers comes with a cost to Libya which finds itself caught in the middle while its vantage point is rarely considered. The struggle for influence is dragging Libyans into fights that are not their own and is making the murky Libyan political landscape even murkier. The Russian military bases (but also other bases that host foreign troops such as Turkey's) do not project a sense of Libya's sovereignty nor guarantee its peace. Outside military presence can only add to the fragmentation of Libya's domestic scene by entrenching the already deep domestic divides around foreign actors. Recent episodes have also shown that competition for influence between foreign powers can fuel factional strife within Libya. The latest reports about the US intent to deport illegal migrants with a criminal record to Libya threw the country's social media into a frenzy as people wondered if Washington was taking advantage of the muddled political scene and exploiting its vulnerabilities of to carry out a questionable agenda that could only further destabilize Libya. On May 23, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio linked the leaked news reports of Washington's attempted deportation of criminal elements to Libya and other parts of Africa to Libya's upheaval saying they have emboldened rebel forces in Libya, igniting the worst street fighting in three years in the Libyan capital. That particular episode has created many doubts over the US strategy in Libya as Washington seemed to be prioritizing a set of expedient objectives despite their predictably adverse effects on the North African country. The uproar which erupted in the first week of May over the shocking video of kidnapped MP Ibrahim el-Dirsi (held with chains around his neck) was seen by many in Libya as an attempt by Haftar's rivals to quash Washington's overtures to the LNA commander. Amid the turmoil which engulfed Tripoli at the end of May over the future of the Dbeibah government, Russia and Turkey tried to paint their encroachment in Libya 'in order to prevent a new escalation that threatens to turn into a resumption of hostilities'. Moscow and Ankara were clearly putting the best face on their more self-serving agendas. Most Libyans suspect foreign actors of being after the country's oil, gas and vast underground riches. They believe Libya's stability is at best a secondary goal for regional and international powers seeking to curtail the footprint of their rivals. But nobody consulted them before inviting foreign armies and their mercenary subordinates and none of the local sponsors is seriously discussing their removal. It is true that the United Nations and some people of good-will have spared no effort to help Libyans steer the ship of state to safe harbor despite the stormy seas. But the complex web of intertwined interests between domestic and foreign stakeholders has so far caused an insurmountable headwind blocking any real progress. Furthermore, the role played by foreign powers has been too often a measure of Libyan protagonists' dependence on outside forces to ensure their own political survival and promote their selfish agendas in an environment awash in corruption and human rights abuses. Not much headway towards a political process that would ensure the reunification of the country's institutions is possible until vying Libyan actors themselves are convinced of the need to put Libya's interests first. That might mean waiting for another generation of wiser and less greedy elites.
Libya Review
6 days ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Haftar Reaffirms Military's Role in Securing Libya
Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA), marked the 11th anniversary of the Al-Karama (Dignity) Revolution with a powerful speech honouring the army's sacrifices and achievements, while stressing the urgent need for increased UN involvement in Libya. In his address, Haftar praised the armed forces for their steadfast defence of Libya against terrorism and extremism, describing the military as 'the solid shield and guarantor of Libya's security.' 'The whole world witnessed the battles of honour and heroism waged by our armed forces,' Haftar said, affirming that the LNA will remain a 'fortress against all threats.' The commander renewed his pledge to honour the memory of fallen soldiers, calling the army's personnel 'the hope of the nation, its pride, and the makers of its future.' He lauded their continuous service, stating, 'Year after year, you have proven worthy of the responsibility and guardians of stability.' Haftar emphasised that the sacrifices made by the LNA will remain immortal, reflecting the unwavering courage of its men. He directed a heartfelt salute to soldiers stationed across Libya, stating that 'the blood of the martyrs lights our path forward.' The commander reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Libya's strength and reviving life in its cities and villages. 'The armed forces are the guarantors of national security and the backbone of stability,' he said, urging full readiness to confront both internal and external challenges. Highlighting military progress in recent years, Haftar said, 'We are proud of our army after years of reconstruction, organisation, and training. Our advances have been driven by unwavering determination and resilience.' He asserted that the LNA provided 'a model of sacrifice and heroism under the most difficult conditions.' Haftar also reiterated that the military will remain a central institution of national interest, vowing to continue executing national missions with precision and success. He closed his speech by calling on all Libyans to take pride in their national army. 'Libya deserves the dedication and sacrifice of its people to maintain its regional and international standing. Our army has met every challenge with an iron will and remains capable of confronting all threats with strength and resolve.' 'Wherever you march, pride multiplies and dignity rises. We are all devoted to Libya, its unity, and its honour. Our flag will remain high in the sky.' He concluded by stressing that the army's sacrifices have 'illuminated the path and preserved national dignity, raising the Libyan people's heads high through the most difficult times.' The Al-Karama Revolution, which began 11 years ago, continues to receive widespread public support, with the LNA viewed by many as a stabilising national force that has helped secure large parts of the country and combat cross-border terrorism. Tags: benghazikhalifa haftarlibyaLibyan armyLNAun
Libya Review
6 days ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Parliament Speaker Praises Libyan Army's Role in Ensuring National Stability
Libyan House of Representatives Speaker Ageela Saleh praised the role of the Libyan National Army (LNA) in maintaining peace and stability across the country. His remarks came during a military parade in Benghazi, marking the 11th anniversary of Al-Karama Operation. In his speech, Saleh described the LNA as the only institution capable of deterrence and protection. 'A country without an army is a swamp of chaos, conflict, a hub for smugglers and criminals, and a ground for personal and regional score-settling,' he stated. Saleh commended the LNA's efforts to build a professional national army. 'The General Command of the LNA has laid the foundation for a regular army that rose from the ashes, crossing the path of despair with the faith of true believers,' he said. He highlighted the military's pivotal role in shaping a secure state and protecting national sovereignty. Referring to the LNA commander, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Saleh said: 'We are proud of its leadership, soldiers, and officers. Building a state means preserving dignity, securing borders and resources, and achieving peace, development, and progress.' Saleh recalled that during this time of year, Libyans made their voice heard against terrorism and extremist ideologies. He credited the military and popular support for what he called 'heroic epics' that led to greater stability. Tags: Al-KaramabenghazilibyaLibyan armyParliament Speaker
Libya Review
24-05-2025
- General
- Libya Review
Haftar Orders Financial Aid for Families of Libyan Soldiers Killed in Battle
On Saturday, the General Command of the Libyan National Army (LNA) announced that it had begun distributing a one-time Eid al-Adha financial grant to the families of soldiers who were either killed or injured in the line of duty. Each eligible family will receive 5,000 Libyan dinars, in accordance with instructions issued by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, the LNA Commander-in-Chief. The initiative is being implemented under the direct supervision of Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, Chief of Staff of the Ground Forces. According to the General Command, the grant is part of ongoing efforts to honor the sacrifices made by members of the Libyan military and to provide meaningful support to their families during the holiday season. This financial gesture comes as a token of appreciation for the bravery and patriotism displayed by those who served on the frontlines in defense of the nation. The leadership stressed that the families of martyrs and wounded soldiers deserve continued recognition, care, and solidarity—especially during times of spiritual and national reflection such as Eid al-Adha. The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to standing by these families, noting that this step reflects both moral responsibility and national gratitude. The initiative is part of a broader approach to strengthening social and institutional support for the military community, especially those who have borne the heaviest burdens of the country's ongoing struggles. Field Marshal Haftar and General Saddam Haftar both emphasized that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces will not be forgotten, and that these families will always be considered part of the military's extended family. Tags: Eid GrantFinancial Aidkhalifa haftarlibyaMilitary Martyrs
