Heavy clashes erupted in Libya’s capital, Tripoli, on Thursday as rival armed groups engaged in fierce firefights across multiple districts. Witnesses reported intense gunfire and significant military movements, prompting widespread panic among residents.
The city’s streets echoed with the sounds of automatic weapons and explosions, indicating a severe escalation in tensions between the factions vying for control. The violence disrupted daily life, with civilians scrambling to find safety amid the chaos.
“I heard heavy gunfire near my neighborhood and saw armed men positioning themselves on the main roads,” said a resident of Tripoli, who asked to remain anonymous for security reasons. “People are terrified and trying to stay indoors.”
In response to the deteriorating situation, the Emergency Department under the Ministry of Health issued an urgent advisory. “Residents are urged to stay away from conflict areas and remain at home for their safety,” the statement read.
The resurgence of violence underscores the fragility of Libya’s security environment, which has been plagued by instability since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011. The ongoing power struggle among various militias continues to hinder efforts toward national reconciliation and rebuilding.
The international community has expressed concern over the renewed hostilities. Observers fear that the clashes could derail recent attempts at peace talks and further destabilize the region, potentially impacting neighboring countries and international interests.
As the situation unfolds, residents of Tripoli and observers worldwide await developments, hoping for a swift resolution to the violence and a return to safety and normalcy in Libya’s capital.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
