Fighters of the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) fired heavy weaponry including tanks and guns mounted on armored vehicles as the forces of veteran general Khalifa Haftar battled groups loyal to the internationally-recognized government in the southern outskirts of Tripoli, video released by LNA

Crisis in Libya Deepens; At least 2 civilians killed in Tripoli

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At least four people were killed in heavy shelling in the Libyan capital Tripoli, an official said on Wednesday as Europe and the Gulf were divided over a push by eastern forces commander Khalifa Haftar to seize the city.

Nearly two weeks into its assault, the veteran general's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) is stuck in the city's southern outskirts battling armed groups loyal to the internationally recognised Tripoli government.

But the southern district of Abu Salim got shelled late on Tuesday with explosions being heard even in the city centre where life had been going on largely untouched by the violence.

The artillery killed at least two people and wounded eight, Osama Ali, spokesman for a Tripoli emergency body, told Reuters, without saying who was behind the shelling. Another official told Libya's Alahrar channel four had been killed and 20 wounded.

The district is located near the road to the old airport in southern Tripoli, which has changed hands several times since the fighting started. Abu Salim lies north of forces loyal to Tripoli seeking to stop the LNA troops coming from south.

Forces allied to Tripoli have accused the LNA of firing rockets into residential areas, but the LNA said in a statement it had nothing to with the shelling, accusing instead a Tripoli-based group.

As the rockets fell, the UN Security Council was due to consider a British-drafted resolution that would demand a ceasefire in Libya and call on all countries with influence over the warring parties to ensure compliance.

Foreign powers are worried but unable to present a united front over the latest flare-up in the cycle of anarchy gripping Libya since dictator Muammar Gaddafi was toppled in 2011.

The conflict has brought a growing humanitarian toll - 174 people killed, 756 injured and almost 20,000 displaced, according to the latest United Nations tallies - and sunk for now an international peace plan.

It threatens to disrupt oil flows, foment migration across the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, and allow jihadists to exploit the chaos.

Qatar said an existing UN&nbsp;arms embargo on Libya should be strictly enforced, to prevent Haftar, 75, from receiving arms.

Haftar enjoys the backing of Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, who view him as an anchor to restore stability and combat Islamist militants.

Those three nations cut ties with Qatar in 2017, accusing it of support for militants and Iran.

Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani told Italian daily La Repubblica a postponed UN&nbsp;peace forum should be rescheduled and Haftar's army made to withdraw.

The arms embargo must be implemented "to prevent those countries that have been providing ammunitions and state-of-the-art weapons from continuing to do so," he said.

Past UN reports say the UAE and Egypt have both supplied Haftar with arms and aircraft, giving him air superiority among Libya's multiple factions. East Libyan authorities say Qatar and Turkey back rival, Islamist-leaning factions in western Libya.

UN MAY DEMAND CEASEFIRE

The Gulf diplomatic divisions echo those in Europe, where former colonial ruler Italy and France have sparred over Libya.

Paris has given Haftar support in the past, viewing him as the best bet to end the chaos since a NATO-backed rebellion to end Gaddafi's murderous four-decade rule.

Italy, with considerable oil interests in the OPEC member, supports the Tripoli government of Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj and was furious with French reluctance to back a recent European Union resolution urging Haftar to halt his advance.

Nevertheless, Serraj has managed to hold the LNA at bay, thanks largely to armed groups that have rushed to aid them from other western Libyan factions.

"The war ends with the withdrawal of these (LNA) forces and return from where they came," Serraj said in a statement on Tuesday.

Though Haftar presents himself as a champion against what he calls terrorism, opponents cast him as a would-be dictator like Gaddafi. About 70 people protested against him at the central Algiers Square in Tripoli on Tuesday.

At least four people were killed in heavy shelling in the Libyan capital Tripoli, an official said on Wednesday as Europe and the Gulf were divided over a push by eastern forces commander Khalifa Haftar to seize the city.

At least four people were killed in heavy shelling in the Libyan capital Tripoli, an official said on Wednesday as Europe and the Gulf were divided over a push by eastern forces commander Khalifa Haftar to seize the city. Nearly two weeks into its assault, the veteran general's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) is stuck in the city's southern outskirts battling armed groups loyal to the internationally recognised Tripoli government. But the southern district of Abu Salim got shelled late on Tuesday with explosions being heard even in the city centre where life had been going on largely untouched by the violence. The artillery killed at least two people and wounded eight, Osama Ali, spokesman for a Tripoli emergency body, told Reuters, without saying who was behind the shelling. Another official told Libya's Alahrar channel four had been killed and 20 wounded. The district is located near the road to the old airport in southern Tripoli, which has changed hands several times since the fighting started. Abu Salim lies north of forces loyal to Tripoli seeking to stop the LNA troops coming from south. Forces allied to Tripoli have accused the LNA of firing rockets into residential areas, but the LNA said in a statement it had nothing to with the shelling, accusing instead a Tripoli-based group. As the rockets fell, the UN Security Council was due to consider a British-drafted resolution that would demand a ceasefire in Libya and call on all countries with influence over the warring parties to ensure compliance. Foreign powers are worried but unable to present a united front over the latest flare-up in the cycle of anarchy gripping Libya since dictator Muammar Gaddafi was toppled in 2011. The conflict has brought a growing humanitarian toll - 174 people killed, 756 injured and almost 20,000 displaced, according to the latest United Nations tallies - and sunk for now an international peace plan. It threatens to disrupt oil flows, foment migration across the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, and allow jihadists to exploit the chaos. Qatar said an existing UN arms embargo on Libya should be strictly enforced, to prevent Haftar, 75, from receiving arms. Haftar enjoys the backing of Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, who view him as an anchor to restore stability and combat Islamist militants. Those three nations cut ties with Qatar in 2017, accusing it of support for militants and Iran. Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani told Italian daily La Repubblica a postponed UN peace forum should be rescheduled and Haftar's army made to withdraw. The arms embargo must be implemented "to prevent those countries that have been providing ammunitions and state-of-the-art weapons from continuing to do so," he said. Past UN reports say the UAE and Egypt have both supplied Haftar with arms and aircraft, giving him air superiority among Libya's multiple factions. East Libyan authorities say Qatar and Turkey back rival, Islamist-leaning factions in western Libya. UN MAY DEMAND CEASEFIRE The Gulf diplomatic divisions echo those in Europe, where former colonial ruler Italy and France have sparred over Libya. Paris has given Haftar support in the past, viewing him as the best bet to end the chaos since a NATO-backed rebellion to end Gaddafi's murderous four-decade rule. Italy, with considerable oil interests in the OPEC member, supports the Tripoli government of Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj and was furious with French reluctance to back a recent European Union resolution urging Haftar to halt his advance. Nevertheless, Serraj has managed to hold the LNA at bay, thanks largely to armed groups that have rushed to aid them from other western Libyan factions. "The war ends with the withdrawal of these (LNA) forces and return from where they came," Serraj said in a statement on Tuesday. Though Haftar presents himself as a champion against what he calls terrorism, opponents cast him as a would-be dictator like Gaddafi. About 70 people protested against him at the central Algiers Square in Tripoli on Tuesday.

Shelling kills four in Tripoli as powers divided over Haftar's push

Nearly 170 people have died as a result of General Khalifa Haftar’s assault on Tripoli, with at least four civilians killed in a bombardment on the Libyan capital overnight.

Libya crisis: Tripoli offensive continues

Libyan govt has claimed that they have shot down an enemy jet. Whereas Haftar forces said that jet crashed due to some technical snag. Watch complete video to know more.

Libya war continues, battle for Tripoli starts again

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypts-sisi-raises-minimum-wage-to-help-assuage-economic-hardships-206801">Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi</a> met Sunday with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar, whose forces are fighting for control of the capital Tripoli, state media reported.

They "are discussing the latest developments in Libya" at the presidential palace in Cairo, state newspaper Al Ahram said.

A presidential spokesperson did not return AFP's calls for confirmation.

Sisi has been an ardent supporter of Haftar's forces, which control swathes of eastern Libya and launched an offensive on April 4 to take the capital.

Fighting near Tripoli has killed 121 people and wounded 561, the World Health Organization said on Sunday.

Haftar has defied international calls to halt his battle against fighters loyal to the UN-backed Government of National Accord based in Tripoli.

Earlier this month, Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry cautioned that the conflict could not be solved militarily.

His remarks came at a Cairo press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, who also called for a political solution among all sides in Libya.

The Libyan commander has modelled his political style of authoritarian leadership after Sisi, himself an army general turned president.&nbsp;

Egypt has provided funding and arms to his Libyan National Army, seeing him as a bulwark against Islamist militants.

Haftar, who was exiled in the United States for two decades, returned to Libya in 2011 when the revolution erupted, commanding forces that eventually toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

The oil-rich north African country has been in turmoil ever since with successive weak governments in place and several Islamist militias battling for territorial control.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met Sunday with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar, whose forces are fighting for control of the capital Tripoli, state media reported.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met Sunday with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar, whose forces are fighting for control of the capital Tripoli, state media reported. They "are discussing the latest developments in Libya" at the presidential palace in Cairo, state newspaper Al Ahram said. A presidential spokesperson did not return AFP's calls for confirmation. Sisi has been an ardent supporter of Haftar's forces, which control swathes of eastern Libya and launched an offensive on April 4 to take the capital. Fighting near Tripoli has killed 121 people and wounded 561, the World Health Organization said on Sunday. Haftar has defied international calls to halt his battle against fighters loyal to the UN-backed Government of National Accord based in Tripoli. Earlier this month, Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry cautioned that the conflict could not be solved militarily. His remarks came at a Cairo press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, who also called for a political solution among all sides in Libya. The Libyan commander has modelled his political style of authoritarian leadership after Sisi, himself an army general turned president. Egypt has provided funding and arms to his Libyan National Army, seeing him as a bulwark against Islamist militants. Haftar, who was exiled in the United States for two decades, returned to Libya in 2011 when the revolution erupted, commanding forces that eventually toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi. The oil-rich north African country has been in turmoil ever since with successive weak governments in place and several Islamist militias battling for territorial control.

Egypt's Sisi meets Libyan strongman Haftar in Cairo: State media

Fighting between rival Libyan forces intensifies, casualties mainly include fighters from both sides. Watch this video to know more.

Libya continues to be on the edge

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday strongly condemned the military <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-pm-accuses-rival-khalifa-haftar-of-betrayal-over-tripoli-offensive-208472">escalation near Tripoli</a> and called for an immediate halt to the fighting in Libya.

The appeal followed an air attack by the forces of commander Khalifa Haftar on the Mitiga airport east of the capital.&nbsp;

Guterres "urges the immediate halt of all military operations in order to de-escalate the situation and prevent an all-out conflict," said a UN statement.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jf37jI-bWb4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

He "strongly condemns the military escalation and ongoing fighting in and around Tripoli, including the aerial attack today by a Libyan National Army (LNA) aircraft against Mitiga airport."

The air strike shut down Tripoli's only functioning airport as fighting raged around the capital and thousands fled.

Haftar's self-styled LNA claimed Monday's air strike against the airport, with a spokesman saying the attack targeted a MiG-23 military plane and a helicopter.

Haftar launched the offensive on Tripoli last week just as Guterres was in Libya to push for a political deal on holding elections.

A UN-backed unity government controls the capital, but its authority is not recognized by a parallel administration in the east of the country.

As fighting escalated over the weekend, the United Nations called for a humanitarian pause to allow civilians trapped in the violence to escape, but the appeal fell on deaf ears.

Libya has been rocked by violent power struggles between an array of armed groups since the NATO-backed overthrow of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday strongly condemned the military escalation near Tripoli and called for an immediate halt to the fighting in Libya.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday strongly condemned the military escalation near Tripoli and called for an immediate halt to the fighting in Libya. The appeal followed an air attack by the forces of commander Khalifa Haftar on the Mitiga airport east of the capital. Guterres "urges the immediate halt of all military operations in order to de-escalate the situation and prevent an all-out conflict," said a UN statement. He "strongly condemns the military escalation and ongoing fighting in and around Tripoli, including the aerial attack today by a Libyan National Army (LNA) aircraft against Mitiga airport." The air strike shut down Tripoli's only functioning airport as fighting raged around the capital and thousands fled. Haftar's self-styled LNA claimed Monday's air strike against the airport, with a spokesman saying the attack targeted a MiG-23 military plane and a helicopter. Haftar launched the offensive on Tripoli last week just as Guterres was in Libya to push for a political deal on holding elections. A UN-backed unity government controls the capital, but its authority is not recognized by a parallel administration in the east of the country. As fighting escalated over the weekend, the United Nations called for a humanitarian pause to allow civilians trapped in the violence to escape, but the appeal fell on deaf ears. Libya has been rocked by violent power struggles between an array of armed groups since the NATO-backed overthrow of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Immediately halt military operations, including air strikes: UN to Khalifa Haftar

Battle for Tripoli still continues in Libya. 51 has been killed till yet. Haftar's force has also attacked the airport as well. Watch complete video to know more.

Libya crisis: Battle for Tripoli still continues

Fighting raged around Tripoli and an air strike closed its only functioning airport Monday, as Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar defied international calls to halt his advance on the capital.

Thousands were also reported by the United Nations to be fleeing the capital city in face of Haftar's surprise assault which has left dozens dead.

The EU's foreign policy chief on Monday added her voice to those urging the eastern strongman to stop his offensive, in the wake of calls for restraint by the UN Security Council and the United States.&nbsp;

"I make a very strong appeal to Libyan leaders and in particular to Haftar to stop all military activities ... and to return to the negotiation table", Federica Mogherini said after talks with EU foreign ministers.

Dozens of people have been killed and thousands displaced in the fighting since Haftar's forces launched their onslaught against Tripoli and its unity government on Thursday.

A security source at Mitiga airport, east of the capital, said no side had yet claimed responsibility for Monday's air raid, which hit a runway without causing casualties.

The civil aviation authority decided "to suspend aerial traffic until further notice" to the capital, said Mohammed Gniwa, a spokesman for national carrier Libyan Airlines.&nbsp;

An airport source, who did want to be named, confirmed the suspension.

The oil-rich north African country has been rocked by violent power struggles between an array of armed groups since the NATO-backed overthrow of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Haftar, a former Kadhafi military chief, has emerged as a major player, his self-styled Libyan National Army backing an administration in the country's east in opposition to the UN-backed Government of National Accord.

Having seized control of much of eastern Libya and buoyed by a series of victories in the desert south, Haftar turned his sights on Tripoli, vowing to "cleanse" it of "terrorists and mercenaries".

'Immediate halt'

After a pause overnight, fighting resumed Monday morning around the capital's destroyed main airport, some 30 kilometres (18 miles) south of Tripoli, and the rural area of Wadi Rabi further east.

World powers have expressed alarm at the violence, saying it threatens to further destabilise Libya and derail UN-led efforts to find a political solution to the country's woes.

The US has appealed for an "immediate halt" to combat operations and the UN Security Council has called on Haftar's forces to stop their advance.

On Sunday Russia blocked proposals for the council to adopt a formal statement, instead insisting that all Libyan forces be urged to stop fighting, diplomats said.&nbsp;

Moscow is a key supporter of Haftar, along with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

But the Kremlin on Monday urged "all sides to reject actions that could provoke bloodshed in battle and the deaths of civilians".

Fierce clashes Sunday near Tripoli saw Haftar's fighters and other powerful western Libyan armed groups exchanging fire including air strikes.

Forces backing the Tripoli-based GNA on Sunday announced a counteroffensive dubbed "Volcano of Anger".

Spokesman Colonel Mohamed Gnounou said it was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters.

Civil war fears&nbsp;

Unity government health minister A'hmid Omar told Libya's Al-Ahrar television station late Sunday that around 50 people had been wounded along with those killed.

His ministry on Monday put the death toll at 35.

Haftar's forces have said 14 of their fighters have died.

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, Maria Ribeiro, said Monday the fighting had displaced more than 2,800 people, blocked rescuers from reaching casualties and damaged electricity lines.

She again urged the warring parties to implement a temporary humanitarian ceasefire.

The previous day, fighting raged throughout a two-hour window set by the UN for a pause in hostilities for civilians and the wounded to flee.

Haftar's offensive has threatened to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war and once again thwart diplomatic efforts to find a solution to Libya's woes.

It was launched just days ahead of a planned UN conference aimed at uniting Libya's rivals and paving the way for elections.

Envoy Ghassan Salame has insisted the UN was "determined" to go ahead with the April 14-16 conference.

The UN mission in Libya said on Twitter that Salame met Monday with unity government head Fayez al-Sarraj in Tripoli to discuss how to "assist at this critical and difficult juncture".

Fighting raged around Tripoli and an air strike closed its only functioning airport Monday, as Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar defied international calls to halt his advance on the capital.

Fighting raged around Tripoli and an air strike closed its only functioning airport Monday, as Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar defied international calls to halt his advance on the capital. Thousands were also reported by the United Nations to be fleeing the capital city in face of Haftar's surprise assault which has left dozens dead. The EU's foreign policy chief on Monday added her voice to those urging the eastern strongman to stop his offensive, in the wake of calls for restraint by the UN Security Council and the United States. "I make a very strong appeal to Libyan leaders and in particular to Haftar to stop all military activities ... and to return to the negotiation table", Federica Mogherini said after talks with EU foreign ministers. Dozens of people have been killed and thousands displaced in the fighting since Haftar's forces launched their onslaught against Tripoli and its unity government on Thursday. A security source at Mitiga airport, east of the capital, said no side had yet claimed responsibility for Monday's air raid, which hit a runway without causing casualties. The civil aviation authority decided "to suspend aerial traffic until further notice" to the capital, said Mohammed Gniwa, a spokesman for national carrier Libyan Airlines. An airport source, who did want to be named, confirmed the suspension. The oil-rich north African country has been rocked by violent power struggles between an array of armed groups since the NATO-backed overthrow of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. Haftar, a former Kadhafi military chief, has emerged as a major player, his self-styled Libyan National Army backing an administration in the country's east in opposition to the UN-backed Government of National Accord. Having seized control of much of eastern Libya and buoyed by a series of victories in the desert south, Haftar turned his sights on Tripoli, vowing to "cleanse" it of "terrorists and mercenaries". 'Immediate halt' After a pause overnight, fighting resumed Monday morning around the capital's destroyed main airport, some 30 kilometres (18 miles) south of Tripoli, and the rural area of Wadi Rabi further east. World powers have expressed alarm at the violence, saying it threatens to further destabilise Libya and derail UN-led efforts to find a political solution to the country's woes. The US has appealed for an "immediate halt" to combat operations and the UN Security Council has called on Haftar's forces to stop their advance. On Sunday Russia blocked proposals for the council to adopt a formal statement, instead insisting that all Libyan forces be urged to stop fighting, diplomats said. Moscow is a key supporter of Haftar, along with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. But the Kremlin on Monday urged "all sides to reject actions that could provoke bloodshed in battle and the deaths of civilians". Fierce clashes Sunday near Tripoli saw Haftar's fighters and other powerful western Libyan armed groups exchanging fire including air strikes. Forces backing the Tripoli-based GNA on Sunday announced a counteroffensive dubbed "Volcano of Anger". Spokesman Colonel Mohamed Gnounou said it was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters. Civil war fears Unity government health minister A'hmid Omar told Libya's Al-Ahrar television station late Sunday that around 50 people had been wounded along with those killed. His ministry on Monday put the death toll at 35. Haftar's forces have said 14 of their fighters have died. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, Maria Ribeiro, said Monday the fighting had displaced more than 2,800 people, blocked rescuers from reaching casualties and damaged electricity lines. She again urged the warring parties to implement a temporary humanitarian ceasefire. The previous day, fighting raged throughout a two-hour window set by the UN for a pause in hostilities for civilians and the wounded to flee. Haftar's offensive has threatened to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war and once again thwart diplomatic efforts to find a solution to Libya's woes. It was launched just days ahead of a planned UN conference aimed at uniting Libya's rivals and paving the way for elections. Envoy Ghassan Salame has insisted the UN was "determined" to go ahead with the April 14-16 conference. The UN mission in Libya said on Twitter that Salame met Monday with unity government head Fayez al-Sarraj in Tripoli to discuss how to "assist at this critical and difficult juncture".

Airstrike halts Tripoli flights as thousands flee Libya clashes

Russia called for calm on all sides in the Libya conflict after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-clashes-death-toll-rises-to-32-un-backed-government-208746">32 people were killed</a> in fighting with strongman Khalifa Haftar's troops near Tripoli.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was calling "on all sides to reject actions that could provoke bloodshed in battle and the deaths of civilians".

Russia's deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov said Moscow was in contact with all sides in the conflict.

"We talk with everyone: with the west, the east and the south," Bogdanov told news agency RIA Novosti. "We call on everyone for a political solution."&nbsp;

The clashes started on Sunday near Tripoli between pro-Haftar fighters and troops loyal to the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

The clashes came despite calls by the United Nations and the United States for an urgent ceasefire.

Libya has been riven by divisions since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power and control of the country's oil.

(With inputs from AFP)

Russia called for calm on all sides in the Libya conflict after 32 people were killed in fighting with strongman Khalifa Haftar's troops near Tripoli. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was calling "on all sides to reject actions that could provoke bloodshed in battle and the deaths of civilians".

Russia called for calm on all sides in the Libya conflict after 32 people were killed in fighting with strongman Khalifa Haftar's troops near Tripoli. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was calling "on all sides to reject actions that could provoke bloodshed in battle and the deaths of civilians". Russia's deputy foreign minister Mikhail Bogdanov said Moscow was in contact with all sides in the conflict. "We talk with everyone: with the west, the east and the south," Bogdanov told news agency RIA Novosti. "We call on everyone for a political solution." The clashes started on Sunday near Tripoli between pro-Haftar fighters and troops loyal to the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). The clashes came despite calls by the United Nations and the United States for an urgent ceasefire. Libya has been riven by divisions since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power and control of the country's oil. (With inputs from AFP)

Russia calls for calm on 'all sides' in Libya conflict

At least 32 people have been killed and around 50 wounded in fighting with strongman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/escalating-libya-conflict-prompts-international-alarm-208648&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiMrIj3isDhAhWC73MBHeDoAdMQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bM654IqYt0uRPeafd3Wv3">Khalifa Haftar</a>'s troops near Tripoli, the UN-backed government said.

Health minister<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-talks-to-go-ahead-despite-new-fighting-un-envoy-208377&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjhqdqQi8DhAhVc6nMBHQxXApEQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2BW6sYK06CJh50V8OphuoN"> A'hmid Omar</a> gave the updated death toll in an interview with Libya's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-pm-accuses-rival-khalifa-haftar-of-betrayal-over-tripoli-offensive-208472&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjhqdqQi8DhAhVc6nMBHQxXApEQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw24YS-qZwod4n11yx-9K-bS">Al-Ahrar</a> television station late Sunday. Haftar's forces have so far said 14 of their fighters have died.

Fierce clashes raged on Sunday near Tripoli between pro-Haftar fighters and troops loyal to the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

The two sides also exchanged air strikes days after Haftar - who backs an administration in eastern Libya opposed to the GNA -- launched an offensive Thursday to seize the capital.

The clashes came despite calls by the United Nations and the United States for an urgent ceasefire.

Pro-GNA forces on Sunday announced a counteroffensive named "Volcano of Anger".

Spokesman Colonel Mohamed Gnounou said the operation was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters.

Libya has been riven by divisions since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power and control of the country's oil.

Haftar's offensive has threatened to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war and once again thwart diplomatic efforts to find a solution to Libya's woes. 
&nbsp;

At least 32 people have been killed and around 50 wounded in fighting with strongman Khalifa Haftar's troops near Tripoli, the UN-backed government said. Health minister A'hmid Omar gave the updated death toll in an interview with Libya's Al-Ahrar television station late Sunday.

At least 32 people have been killed and around 50 wounded in fighting with strongman Khalifa Haftar's troops near Tripoli, the UN-backed government said. Health minister A'hmid Omar gave the updated death toll in an interview with Libya's Al-Ahrar television station late Sunday. Haftar's forces have so far said 14 of their fighters have died. Fierce clashes raged on Sunday near Tripoli between pro-Haftar fighters and troops loyal to the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). The two sides also exchanged air strikes days after Haftar - who backs an administration in eastern Libya opposed to the GNA -- launched an offensive Thursday to seize the capital. The clashes came despite calls by the United Nations and the United States for an urgent ceasefire. Pro-GNA forces on Sunday announced a counteroffensive named "Volcano of Anger". Spokesman Colonel Mohamed Gnounou said the operation was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters. Libya has been riven by divisions since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power and control of the country's oil. Haftar's offensive has threatened to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war and once again thwart diplomatic efforts to find a solution to Libya's woes.

Libya clashes death toll rises to 32, nearly 50 injured: Government

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/500000-children-face-immediate-danger-libya-capital-un-167439">The conflict shaking Libya</a> escalated Sunday as forces of strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike on a suburb of Tripoli and the UN-backed government vowed a major counteroffensive.

The United Nations called for an urgent two-hour truce to allow evacuations of civilians and the wounded, while the unity government said the fighting had so far killed 21 people.

Rivalries between the two camps threaten to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war after Haftar on Thursday launched an offensive on Tripoli.

Oil-rich Libya has been riven by chaos since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, as rival administrations and armed groups have battled for power.

Repeated attempts to find a peaceful solution have failed.

After a pause overnight, fierce fighting flared anew on Sunday morning south of the capital between Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) and forces backing the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).

As clashes raged in the mainly farmland region of Wadi Raba and the destroyed international airport south of the capital, a spokesman for pro-GNA forces announced a counteroffensive against Haftar's forces.

Colonel Mohamed Gnounou told reporters that operation "Volcano of Anger" was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters.

The LNA said it had carried out its first air raid on a Tripoli suburb, defying calls by the international community to halt hostilities.

The unity government's health ministry said Sunday at least 21 people had been killed and 27 wounded since the fighting began, without specifying whether civilians were among the dead.

Haftar's force said Saturday that 14 of its personnel had been killed, while the Libyan Red Crescent reported the death of one of its doctors.

GNA head Fayez al-Sarraj warned Saturday of a "war without a winner" and said reinforcements were pouring into Tripoli to battle Haftar's forces.

Powerful armed groups from the western city of Misrata and fighters from Zintan and Zawiya -- battle-hardened militiamen who took part in the 2011 uprising against Kadhafi -- have joined the battle.

At least one armed group from Misrata, Brigade 166, arrived Saturday in eastern Tripoli to join the counteroffensive with dozens of vehicles, some mounted with anti-aircraft guns, an AFP photographer said.

"We are waiting for orders to repel any advance by the enemy towards Tripoli," said the group's spokesman Khaled Abu Jazia.

Misrata fighters ousted the Islamic State group from Libya's coastal city of Sirte, Kadhafi's hometown, in 2016 after months of fighting.

Haftar has also presented himself as the scourge of Islamist extremists, pushing hardline militias out of the eastern city of Benghazi in 2017 after a deadly three-year battle.

Sunday's LNA air raid came a day after pro-GNA forces launched their own air strikes for the first time since the offensive began, targeting at least one LNA position south of Tripoli.

'Protracted war' 
LNA spokesman Ahmed Mesmari had vowed the force would retaliate.

On Saturday he said pro-Haftar fighters were "progressing on several fronts... as planned" and that Tripoli would soon be captured.

The US military said Sunday it had temporarily pulled an unspecified number of its troops out of Libya "in response to security conditions on the ground".

Analysts say Haftar has been buoyed by a series of successful operations that have brought all of the east and much of southern Libya under his control.

A field marshal who served under Kadhafi and now backs an administration in eastern Libya opposed to the GNA, Haftar was counting on a swift battle to capture Tripoli.

But some experts say he miscalculated.

"To date, Haftar's operation has mostly failed to go according to plan, and it has now galvanised western Libyan forces against him," said analyst Wolfram Lacher.

"He now faces the prospect of a protracted war south of Tripoli, or of a decisive defeat," said Lacher, a researcher with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.

As the tension mounted, Tripoli residents queued Saturday outside petrol stations and supermarkets.

UN peace efforts 
Haftar's offensive came as UN chief Antonio Guterres visited Libya Thursday days ahead of a planned UN-backed conference aimed at uniting Libya's rivals and paving the way for elections.

The UN Security Council has called on Haftar's forces to halt their advance, warning it would further destabilise Libya.

Envoy Ghassan Salame insisted Saturday the UN was "determined" to go ahead with the April 14-16 conference.

Sarraj accused Haftar of "betraying" a February deal to hold elections and create a new unity government before year's end.

Haftar is "motivated by personal interests and his own delusions" and is trying to "plunge the country into a cycle of violence", said Sarraj.

The conflict shaking Libya escalated Sunday as forces of strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike on a suburb of Tripoli and the UN-backed government vowed a major counteroffensive.

The conflict shaking Libya escalated Sunday as forces of strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike on a suburb of Tripoli and the UN-backed government vowed a major counteroffensive. The United Nations called for an urgent two-hour truce to allow evacuations of civilians and the wounded, while the unity government said the fighting had so far killed 21 people. Rivalries between the two camps threaten to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war after Haftar on Thursday launched an offensive on Tripoli. Oil-rich Libya has been riven by chaos since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, as rival administrations and armed groups have battled for power. Repeated attempts to find a peaceful solution have failed. After a pause overnight, fierce fighting flared anew on Sunday morning south of the capital between Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) and forces backing the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). As clashes raged in the mainly farmland region of Wadi Raba and the destroyed international airport south of the capital, a spokesman for pro-GNA forces announced a counteroffensive against Haftar's forces. Colonel Mohamed Gnounou told reporters that operation "Volcano of Anger" was aimed at "purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces", in reference to Haftar's fighters. The LNA said it had carried out its first air raid on a Tripoli suburb, defying calls by the international community to halt hostilities. The unity government's health ministry said Sunday at least 21 people had been killed and 27 wounded since the fighting began, without specifying whether civilians were among the dead. Haftar's force said Saturday that 14 of its personnel had been killed, while the Libyan Red Crescent reported the death of one of its doctors. GNA head Fayez al-Sarraj warned Saturday of a "war without a winner" and said reinforcements were pouring into Tripoli to battle Haftar's forces. Powerful armed groups from the western city of Misrata and fighters from Zintan and Zawiya -- battle-hardened militiamen who took part in the 2011 uprising against Kadhafi -- have joined the battle. At least one armed group from Misrata, Brigade 166, arrived Saturday in eastern Tripoli to join the counteroffensive with dozens of vehicles, some mounted with anti-aircraft guns, an AFP photographer said. "We are waiting for orders to repel any advance by the enemy towards Tripoli," said the group's spokesman Khaled Abu Jazia. Misrata fighters ousted the Islamic State group from Libya's coastal city of Sirte, Kadhafi's hometown, in 2016 after months of fighting. Haftar has also presented himself as the scourge of Islamist extremists, pushing hardline militias out of the eastern city of Benghazi in 2017 after a deadly three-year battle. Sunday's LNA air raid came a day after pro-GNA forces launched their own air strikes for the first time since the offensive began, targeting at least one LNA position south of Tripoli. 'Protracted war' LNA spokesman Ahmed Mesmari had vowed the force would retaliate. On Saturday he said pro-Haftar fighters were "progressing on several fronts... as planned" and that Tripoli would soon be captured. The US military said Sunday it had temporarily pulled an unspecified number of its troops out of Libya "in response to security conditions on the ground". Analysts say Haftar has been buoyed by a series of successful operations that have brought all of the east and much of southern Libya under his control. A field marshal who served under Kadhafi and now backs an administration in eastern Libya opposed to the GNA, Haftar was counting on a swift battle to capture Tripoli. But some experts say he miscalculated. "To date, Haftar's operation has mostly failed to go according to plan, and it has now galvanised western Libyan forces against him," said analyst Wolfram Lacher. "He now faces the prospect of a protracted war south of Tripoli, or of a decisive defeat," said Lacher, a researcher with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. As the tension mounted, Tripoli residents queued Saturday outside petrol stations and supermarkets. UN peace efforts Haftar's offensive came as UN chief Antonio Guterres visited Libya Thursday days ahead of a planned UN-backed conference aimed at uniting Libya's rivals and paving the way for elections. The UN Security Council has called on Haftar's forces to halt their advance, warning it would further destabilise Libya. Envoy Ghassan Salame insisted Saturday the UN was "determined" to go ahead with the April 14-16 conference. Sarraj accused Haftar of "betraying" a February deal to hold elections and create a new unity government before year's end. Haftar is "motivated by personal interests and his own delusions" and is trying to "plunge the country into a cycle of violence", said Sarraj.

Escalating Libya conflict prompts international alarm

Gunfire and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-300-migrants-rescued-off-libya-aid-group-185777">explosions rocked Libya</a>'s foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three&nbsp;people.

A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

A suicide bomber then struck inside and gunfire broke out, according to the source, who said the victim was a civil servant.

Plumes of smoke were seen rising from the building as ambulances, paramedics and security forces gathered outside.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

Torn apart by power struggles and undermined by chronic insecurity, Libya has become a haven for jihadists since the ouster and killing of Moamer Gadhafi in 2011.

Two competing administrations, rival militias, tribes and jihadists have been competing for control of territory and the country's vast oil wealth.

The Islamic State jihadist group (IS) took advantage of the chaos to gain a foothold in the coastal city of Sirte in 2015.&nbsp;

Forces loyal to the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) regained control of the city in December 2016 after eight months of deadly fighting.

Since then, some jihadists have returned to the desert in an attempt to regroup and reorganise.

In September, IS claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on the headquarters of Libya's National Oil Company in the heart of Tripoli which left two dead and 10 wounded.

Four months earlier, it claimed an attack on the electoral commission's headquarters which left 14 dead.

In April, the GNA launched an operation to track down IS fighters operating in areas of western Libya under its control.

Last month IS claimed responsibility for an attack on militia forces in southeastern Libya in which at least nine people were killed.

The US military has regularly carried out strikes on jihadists in Libya, particularly south of Sirte.&nbsp;

The GNA was set up under a 2015 UN-brokered deal, but a rival administration based in the country's east aligned with military strongman Khalifa Haftar refuses to recognise its authority.

Rival Libyan leaders had agreed to a Paris-brokered deal in May to hold a nationwide election by the end of the year.

But instability, territorial disputes and divisions have delayed plans for elections.

Two days of meetings last month in Italy laid bare deep divisions between key players in the crisis with some delegates refusing to sit side by side.

Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people. A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people. A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene. A suicide bomber then struck inside and gunfire broke out, according to the source, who said the victim was a civil servant. Plumes of smoke were seen rising from the building as ambulances, paramedics and security forces gathered outside. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Torn apart by power struggles and undermined by chronic insecurity, Libya has become a haven for jihadists since the ouster and killing of Moamer Gadhafi in 2011. Two competing administrations, rival militias, tribes and jihadists have been competing for control of territory and the country's vast oil wealth. The Islamic State jihadist group (IS) took advantage of the chaos to gain a foothold in the coastal city of Sirte in 2015. Forces loyal to the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) regained control of the city in December 2016 after eight months of deadly fighting. Since then, some jihadists have returned to the desert in an attempt to regroup and reorganise. In September, IS claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on the headquarters of Libya's National Oil Company in the heart of Tripoli which left two dead and 10 wounded. Four months earlier, it claimed an attack on the electoral commission's headquarters which left 14 dead. In April, the GNA launched an operation to track down IS fighters operating in areas of western Libya under its control. Last month IS claimed responsibility for an attack on militia forces in southeastern Libya in which at least nine people were killed. The US military has regularly carried out strikes on jihadists in Libya, particularly south of Sirte. The GNA was set up under a 2015 UN-brokered deal, but a rival administration based in the country's east aligned with military strongman Khalifa Haftar refuses to recognise its authority. Rival Libyan leaders had agreed to a Paris-brokered deal in May to hold a nationwide election by the end of the year. But instability, territorial disputes and divisions have delayed plans for elections. Two days of meetings last month in Italy laid bare deep divisions between key players in the crisis with some delegates refusing to sit side by side.

Watch: Attackers hit Libya foreign ministry in Tripoli; 3 dead

According to reports, Libya's self-styled National Army has claimed to have carried out airstrikes near the city of Misrata.

As many as three strikes were carried out on Saturday against "terrorist sites" at a region controlled by a rival militia, an al-Qaida-linked group.

The attack destroyed dozens of weapons and vehicles in the town of Sadada located nearly 80&nbsp;kilometres east of Misrata city.

Libya grapples with internal conflict after the 2011 uprising. The country is divided between rival governments.&nbsp;

While the Libya National Army supports a government in the east, the Misrata militia follows a UN-backed government in Tripoli.

Libya grapples with internal conflict after the 2011 uprising

According to reports, Libya's self-styled National Army has claimed to have carried out airstrikes near the city of Misrata. As many as three strikes were carried out on Saturday against "terrorist sites" at a region controlled by a rival militia, an al-Qaida-linked group. The attack destroyed dozens of weapons and vehicles in the town of Sadada located nearly 80 kilometres east of Misrata city. Libya grapples with internal conflict after the 2011 uprising. The country is divided between rival governments. While the Libya National Army supports a government in the east, the Misrata militia follows a UN-backed government in Tripoli.

Libyan airstrikes target 'terrorist sites' near Misrata city

A militant group attacked Tripoli&#39;s Mitiga International Airport on Monday with heavy weapons leaving 20 dead and about 60 injured, local media reported.&nbsp;

The Libyan Health Ministry of the Tripoli-based government confirmed the number on their Facebook page and informed that the massive fighting erupted on Monday morning.&nbsp;

The airport had come under attack when the government forces had clashed with rival forces, loyal to &#39;salvation government&#39; after the latter made a bid to capture the airport.

Clashes took place between Brigade 33 led by Basheer Al-Bugra and the Special Deterrence Force that is operating the Mitiga Airport, media reports said.&nbsp;

&quot;The criminal militia known as Bashir al-Baqarah and all the criminals wanted by the Deterrent Force attacked the International Airport after escaping (jail) and joining the militia,&quot; the Special Deterrent Force (SDF) in charge of securing the airport said in a statement on its official Facebook page.

&quot;The attackers are being dealt with until they are defeated and expelled from the Mitiga airport and the prison, where more than 2,500 inmates are detained on various charges&quot;, added the SDF.

During the clash, two aeroplanes&nbsp;of Afriqiyah Airways were heavily damaged and security of the airport said over 9 planes were moved to the Tripoli International Airport for safety reasons, reports stated.&nbsp;

The operations at the airport have been shut down at present.&nbsp;

Libya has been plagued with insecurity, violence and political chaos, since the fall of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi&#39;s regime in 2011 in a coup.

The airport had come under attack when the government forces had clashed with rival forces, loyal to 'salvation government', after the latter made a bid to capture the airport

A militant group attacked Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport on Monday with heavy weapons leaving 20 dead and about 60 injured, local media reported. The Libyan Health Ministry of the Tripoli-based government confirmed the number on their Facebook page and informed that the massive fighting erupted on Monday morning. The airport had come under attack when the government forces had clashed with rival forces, loyal to 'salvation government' after the latter made a bid to capture the airport. Clashes took place between Brigade 33 led by Basheer Al-Bugra and the Special Deterrence Force that is operating the Mitiga Airport, media reports said. "The criminal militia known as Bashir al-Baqarah and all the criminals wanted by the Deterrent Force attacked the International Airport after escaping (jail) and joining the militia," the Special Deterrent Force (SDF) in charge of securing the airport said in a statement on its official Facebook page. "The attackers are being dealt with until they are defeated and expelled from the Mitiga airport and the prison, where more than 2,500 inmates are detained on various charges", added the SDF. During the clash, two aeroplanes of Afriqiyah Airways were heavily damaged and security of the airport said over 9 planes were moved to the Tripoli International Airport for safety reasons, reports stated. The operations at the airport have been shut down at present. Libya has been plagued with insecurity, violence and political chaos, since the fall of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011 in a coup.

Tripoli airport clash leaves 20 dead, 60 injured

An armed group in Libya said on Facebook Saturday it has freed Seif al-Islam, the son of dead dictator Muammar Gaddafi&nbsp;who has been in custody since November 2011.

The Abu Bakr al-Sadiq Brigade, a militia of former rebels that controls the town of Zintan in western Libya, said Seif al-Islam was freed Friday evening, &quot;the 14th day of the month of Ramadan&quot;, under an amnesty law promulgated by the parliament based in the east.

The North African country has rival administrations, with the authorities in the east not recognising the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in the capital.

Political rivalry and fighting between militias has hampered Libya&#39;s efforts to recover from the chaos that followed the 2011 uprising that toppled and killed Seif al-Islam&#39;s father.

Rival authorities and militias have been vying for control of the oil-rich country ever since.

&quot;We have decided to liberate Seif al-Islam Moamer Kadhafi. He is now free and has left the city of Zintan,&quot; the statement on Facebook said.

Zintan is controlled by armed groups opposed to the GNA.

The son of the former dictator is the subject of an arrest warrant for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the eight months of the uprising in 2011.

Libya&#39;s authorities and the International Criminal Court (ICC) are in dispute over who has the right to judge him.

&#39;Sword of Islam&#39;&nbsp;

He was sentenced to death in July 2015 by a court in Tripoli for his role in the murderous repression of the 2011 revolt.

Seif al-Islam, 44, was born on June 25, 1972.

His name means sword of Islam, and he is the second of Gaddafi&#39;s eight children, the eldest son of his second wife Safiya.

The fluent English speaker often appeared in the West as the public face of his father&#39;s regime.

He held no official post but had influence as a loyal emissary of the regime and architect of reform.

In July 2016, Seif al-Islam&#39;s lawyers claimed that their client had been released under an amnesty issued by the unrecognised authorities in the east of the country.

But the GNA said the amnesty, enacted in April that year, cannot apply to persons accused of crimes against humanity.

In all, three of Gaddafi&#39;s seven sons died during the revolution.

One son who survived, Saadi, is still on trial in Libya for his alleged involvement in the crackdown and killing of a former football coach.

The deposed dictator&#39;s widow Safiya and three more of their children found refuge in Algeria in the wake of the revolution and then later in Oman.

But the shockwaves created by the ouster and grizzly killing of Muammar Gaddafi by rebels in his home town of Sirte continue to ripple across the troubled country.

Late last month, Tripoli was rocked by fierce clashes between forces loyal to the unity government and rival militias, with more than 50 members of the pro-GNA forces reported killed.

Relying on militia support and pitted against the rival administration in the east, the GNA has struggled to assert its authority.

&nbsp;

The Abu Bakr al-Sadiq Brigade claimed?Seif al-Islam was freed? under an amnesty law promulgated by the parliament based in the east

An armed group in Libya said on Facebook Saturday it has freed Seif al-Islam, the son of dead dictator Muammar Gaddafi who has been in custody since November 2011. The Abu Bakr al-Sadiq Brigade, a militia of former rebels that controls the town of Zintan in western Libya, said Seif al-Islam was freed Friday evening, "the 14th day of the month of Ramadan", under an amnesty law promulgated by the parliament based in the east. The North African country has rival administrations, with the authorities in the east not recognising the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in the capital. Political rivalry and fighting between militias has hampered Libya's efforts to recover from the chaos that followed the 2011 uprising that toppled and killed Seif al-Islam's father. Rival authorities and militias have been vying for control of the oil-rich country ever since. "We have decided to liberate Seif al-Islam Moamer Kadhafi. He is now free and has left the city of Zintan," the statement on Facebook said. Zintan is controlled by armed groups opposed to the GNA. The son of the former dictator is the subject of an arrest warrant for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the eight months of the uprising in 2011. Libya's authorities and the International Criminal Court (ICC) are in dispute over who has the right to judge him. 'Sword of Islam' He was sentenced to death in July 2015 by a court in Tripoli for his role in the murderous repression of the 2011 revolt. Seif al-Islam, 44, was born on June 25, 1972. His name means sword of Islam, and he is the second of Gaddafi's eight children, the eldest son of his second wife Safiya. The fluent English speaker often appeared in the West as the public face of his father's regime. He held no official post but had influence as a loyal emissary of the regime and architect of reform. In July 2016, Seif al-Islam's lawyers claimed that their client had been released under an amnesty issued by the unrecognised authorities in the east of the country. But the GNA said the amnesty, enacted in April that year, cannot apply to persons accused of crimes against humanity. In all, three of Gaddafi's seven sons died during the revolution. One son who survived, Saadi, is still on trial in Libya for his alleged involvement in the crackdown and killing of a former football coach. The deposed dictator's widow Safiya and three more of their children found refuge in Algeria in the wake of the revolution and then later in Oman. But the shockwaves created by the ouster and grizzly killing of Muammar Gaddafi by rebels in his home town of Sirte continue to ripple across the troubled country. Late last month, Tripoli was rocked by fierce clashes between forces loyal to the unity government and rival militias, with more than 50 members of the pro-GNA forces reported killed. Relying on militia support and pitted against the rival administration in the east, the GNA has struggled to assert its authority.

Libyan group claims to have freed Gaddafi's son Seif al-Islam

The US military conducted air strikes in Libya on Monday, following a government request to target the Islamic State group&#39;s Libyan stronghold of Sirte, the Pentagon announced. 
 
While the Pentagon has previously carried out air attacks on specific high-value IS targets in Libya, Monday&#39;s action marked the first known US strikes in Sirte itself. 
 
&quot;At the request of the Libyan Government of National Accord, the United States military conducted precision air strikes against ISIL targets in Sirte, Libya, to support GNA-affiliated forces seeking to defeat ISIL in its primary stronghold in Libya,&quot; Pentagon press secretary Peter Cook said in a statement, using an acronym for the IS group. 
 
US strikes in Sirte &quot;will continue&quot;, Cook added without elaborating. 
 
President Barack Obama authorised the bombings following recommendations from top pentagon officials, and the strikes were &quot;consistent with our approach to combating ISIL by working with capable and motivated local forces&quot;, Cook added. 
 
&quot;The US stands with the international community in supporting the GNA as it strives to restore stability and security to Libya,&quot; he said. 
 
Monday&#39;s action comes after a US strike targeted an IS training camp in a rural area near Sabratha, outside Tripoli, in February, likely killing an IS leader called Noureddine Chouchane and dozens of other jihadists. 
 
In November, a US strike killed Abu Nabil, another IS leader who was also known as Wissam Najm Abd Zayd al-Zubaydi. 
 
A US senior administration official said US action would be limited to strikes and information sharing to support these, and that 
American troops would not take part in any ground operations to support the GNA. 
 
The official said precision strikes would target key IS military infrastructure such as tanks, high-caliber weapons and command and control nodes.&nbsp;Libya spiraled into chaos after longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi was ousted and killed in October 2011, with two governments vying for power and armed groups battling to control vast energy resources. 
 
Exploiting Libya&#39;s power vacuum, IS jihadists established a foothold in Libya, especially in Sirte. The Pentagon estimates fewer than 1,000 IS fighters are in Sirte. 
 
(AFP)

Monday's action comes after a US strike targeted an IS training camp in a rural area near Sabratha, outside Tripoli, in February

The US military conducted air strikes in Libya on Monday, following a government request to target the Islamic State group's Libyan stronghold of Sirte, the Pentagon announced. While the Pentagon has previously carried out air attacks on specific high-value IS targets in Libya, Monday's action marked the first known US strikes in Sirte itself. "At the request of the Libyan Government of National Accord, the United States military conducted precision air strikes against ISIL targets in Sirte, Libya, to support GNA-affiliated forces seeking to defeat ISIL in its primary stronghold in Libya," Pentagon press secretary Peter Cook said in a statement, using an acronym for the IS group. US strikes in Sirte "will continue", Cook added without elaborating. President Barack Obama authorised the bombings following recommendations from top pentagon officials, and the strikes were "consistent with our approach to combating ISIL by working with capable and motivated local forces", Cook added. "The US stands with the international community in supporting the GNA as it strives to restore stability and security to Libya," he said. Monday's action comes after a US strike targeted an IS training camp in a rural area near Sabratha, outside Tripoli, in February, likely killing an IS leader called Noureddine Chouchane and dozens of other jihadists. In November, a US strike killed Abu Nabil, another IS leader who was also known as Wissam Najm Abd Zayd al-Zubaydi. A US senior administration official said US action would be limited to strikes and information sharing to support these, and that American troops would not take part in any ground operations to support the GNA. The official said precision strikes would target key IS military infrastructure such as tanks, high-caliber weapons and command and control nodes. Libya spiraled into chaos after longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi was ousted and killed in October 2011, with two governments vying for power and armed groups battling to control vast energy resources. Exploiting Libya's power vacuum, IS jihadists established a foothold in Libya, especially in Sirte. The Pentagon estimates fewer than 1,000 IS fighters are in Sirte. (AFP)

US launches first anti-IS air strikes in Libya's Sirte

Forces aligned with Libya&#39;s unity government said they had taken control of the port of Sirte, making further gains in Islamic State&#39;s North African stronghold. 
 
Brigades, largely composed of fighters from Misrata, advanced this week to the perimeter of Sirte&#39;s city centre after launching a counter attack against the Islamic State last month and driving the militant group back along the coastal road between the two cities. 
 
The brigades are part of an operation supported by Libya&#39;s UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), which arrived in Tripoli in March and has been gradually working to establish its authority. 
 
Western powers see it as the best bet for trying to unite Libya&#39;s political and armed factions against the Islamic State and for restoring some stability in the oil-rich North African country. 
 
A source from the operations room in Misrata said fighters from the front line in the south of Sirte had looped round to the seafront to capture the port, which lies about 5 km (3 miles) east of the city centre. 
 
The brigades have advanced more swiftly than many expected, though their progress has been hampered by suicide bombers, mines and snipers. 
 
Clashes in Sirte on Friday left 11 brigade members dead and 35 wounded, the operations room source said. More than 100 fighters from the GNA-backed brigades have been killed and more than 500 wounded since the campaign to recapture Sirte began in early May. 
 
The Islamic State started expanding into Libya in 2014 as the political turmoil and conflict in the country worsened. It took full control of Sirte last year, but has struggled to retain territory or win support elsewhere in Libya. 
 
As the brigades based in Misrata have advanced on Sirte from the west, a separate force that controls some of Libya&#39;s key oil terminals and is also aligned with the GNA has pushed Islamic State back from the east.&nbsp;

Over 100 government fighters have been killed and more than 500 injured since the campaign to recapture the city began in early May

Forces aligned with Libya's unity government said they had taken control of the port of Sirte, making further gains in Islamic State's North African stronghold. Brigades, largely composed of fighters from Misrata, advanced this week to the perimeter of Sirte's city centre after launching a counter attack against the Islamic State last month and driving the militant group back along the coastal road between the two cities. The brigades are part of an operation supported by Libya's UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), which arrived in Tripoli in March and has been gradually working to establish its authority. Western powers see it as the best bet for trying to unite Libya's political and armed factions against the Islamic State and for restoring some stability in the oil-rich North African country. A source from the operations room in Misrata said fighters from the front line in the south of Sirte had looped round to the seafront to capture the port, which lies about 5 km (3 miles) east of the city centre. The brigades have advanced more swiftly than many expected, though their progress has been hampered by suicide bombers, mines and snipers. Clashes in Sirte on Friday left 11 brigade members dead and 35 wounded, the operations room source said. More than 100 fighters from the GNA-backed brigades have been killed and more than 500 wounded since the campaign to recapture Sirte began in early May. The Islamic State started expanding into Libya in 2014 as the political turmoil and conflict in the country worsened. It took full control of Sirte last year, but has struggled to retain territory or win support elsewhere in Libya. As the brigades based in Misrata have advanced on Sirte from the west, a separate force that controls some of Libya's key oil terminals and is also aligned with the GNA has pushed Islamic State back from the east.

Libyan forces claim Sirte port from Islamic State

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