Libyan authorities imposed a security cordon around Tripoli on Thursday evening, deploying armored vehicles and specialized units to safeguard the capital ahead of Friday's funeral for Army Chief of Staff Mohammed al-Haddad and seven others killed in a plane crash near Ankara, Türkiye. The measures aim to prevent potential unrest during ceremonies expected to draw senior officials and large crowds.
Al-Haddad, who was in Türkiye for high-level military talks, died alongside four military officials and three crew members when their aircraft went down on Tuesday. The Libyan Interior Ministry confirmed Thursday that the flight's black box will be analyzed in Germany under a joint agreement with Turkish authorities.
Local media reported heightened military presence across Tripoli, with social media footage showing convoys departing from Tajoura military camp. An unnamed security source told Al-Mashhad the operation seeks to "contain tensions" and prevent exploitation of the tragedy for destabilization.
Funeral prayers and military honors are scheduled Friday following the repatriation of remains from Türkiye. The ceremonies highlight ongoing security challenges in Libya, where rival factions continue vying for influence amid fragile political transitions.
