Sisi, Haftar discuss Libya’s turmoil

CAIRO – 14 April 2019: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi met with Khalifa Haftar, the head of the Libyan National Army (LNA), on Sunday in al-Ittahadyia presidential palace, discussing the ongoing escalation in Libya, said Egyptian presidential spokesperson Bassam Radi.

Since April 4, LNA troops have taken military advance on Tripoli-based militias affiliated to the internationally-recognized government led by Faiz al Sarraj.

The Tobruk-based Libyan National Army has controlled the eastern territories of the country. Haftar was appointed as commander of the army on March 2, 2015 by the Libyan House of Representatives.

The Libyan National Army recaptured the cities of Benghazi and Derna in 2017 and 2018 respectively through “Operation Dignity”. The operation was launched in 2014 and since then has regained control over many oil facilities and ports.

UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that Libya is on the brink of “a very dangerous situation” as forces loyal to Sarraj’s government and a rival strongman battle for control of the capital.

Thousands of people have fled heavy fighting on the outskirts of Tripoli that left dozens dead and prompted mounting global alarm.