Libyan commander and political figure shaping Libya’s conflict
Libya has seen a significant easing of conflict, with recent agreements on a unified budget and joint military exercises involving forces from both the eastern Libyan National Army and the UN-recognized government. The exercises, supported by the US and Italy, mark a step toward military integration after years of division and conflict. Meanwhile, investigations reveal ongoing financial and military support networks linked to Haftar's forces, including illicit arms transfers and influence over Libya's economy. Satellite images also show new drone activity at Al Khadim airbase, indicating continued military developments.
A report by The Sentry links Libyan businessman Ahmed Gadalla to financing Haftar's failed offensive, supporting Russian mercenaries and illicit financial activities. Gadalla's influence has expanded across eastern Libya's financial system, with ongoing efforts to procure arms for Sudan amid regional instability. Western calls for sanctions grow.
A Russian LNG tanker has been drifting in the Mediterranean since a suspected sea drone attack in early March. The vessel, carrying 60,000 tonnes of LNG, was badly damaged and is now out of control. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility but is accused of targeting the tanker with naval drones. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over sanctions and energy exports amid the Ukraine conflict.
Libya's rival factions have endorsed a unified budget, marking a step toward financial stability after years of division. The agreement was signed by representatives from Tripoli and Benghazi, supported by US mediation, but political divisions and control over oil regions remain unresolved.
A migrant boat leaving Tobruk has capsized in the eastern Libyan Mediterranean, with at least seven survivors and nine missing. The UN IOM notes survivors were at sea for days and some migrants died of hunger and thirst. Rescue efforts involve Libyan navy, coast guard, and Red Crescent amid continuing migrant crossings from Libya to Europe.
Sanctions have targeted Colombian mercenaries and networks aiding the RSF as UN and US authorities document Libyan-based support. The RSF is expanding operations with foreign fighters and equipment amid the Sudan conflict, raising humanitarian concerns and prompting renewed pressure on international actors.
Fighting near the Zawiya refinery has escalated, prompting a precautionary halt and evacuation of staff. The refinery’s output remains uncertain as clashes intensify and threaten key Libyan oil infrastructure.
Libya’s government has banned entry through all ports for citizens of Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia, with exemptions for diplomats and health/education workers. The move follows ongoing tensions over refugee resettlement and a history of migrants crossing Libyan routes to Europe. Reports detail detentions, abuses in detention centers, and deaths among migrants and refugees.
Amnesty International has accused the EU of cooperating with a xenophobic, racist regime as Europe tightens borders under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. The Libyan coast guard faces ongoing scrutiny after Amnesty links to mass arrests, evictions and deportations. EU leaders defend engagement as a lifesaving, border-management effort.