Lybia Conflict - Part.1

The war in Libya began in 2011 amid the Arab Spring, when citizens protested against the oppressive rule of Muammar Gaddafi. His regime responded with violence, triggering a civil war that drew international attention. NATO intervened militarily, launching airstrikes to protect civilians and assist rebel forces. Gaddafi was overthrown and killed in October 2011, ending 42 years of dictatorship. However, instead of transitioning to a stable democracy, Libya collapsed into political chaos. With no unified authority, various militias, tribes, and extremist groups—such as ISIS—gained power, plunging the country into prolonged instability and violence.

By 2014, Libya had effectively split between two rival governments: the UN-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) in the west and the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by General Khalifa Haftar, in the east. Foreign interference deepened the conflict, as global powers backed opposing sides with arms, funds, and troops. Haftar’s attempt to capture Tripoli in 2019 led to intense fighting and a humanitarian crisis, but was ultimately repelled with Turkish military support for the GNA. Libya’s oil wealth, once the foundation of its economy, became a source of conflict, with factions vying for control over oil fields and revenues.

A ceasefire was signed in October 2020, and in early 2021, a UN-led peace process established a temporary Government of National Unity (GNU) to lead Libya toward elections. Despite early optimism, deep divisions and disputes over election laws, candidate eligibility, and regional representation stalled progress. The planned December 2021 elections never occurred, and by 2025, the country remains politically fragmented, with rival governments still operating in Tripoli and Benghazi. Sporadic violence continues, and many armed groups retain significant power, making disarmament and reconciliation elusive goals. International efforts persist, but Libya’s future remains uncertain.