Drums of War Beat in Libyan Capital

Cairo – Tensions are tightening in the Libyan capital, Tripoli as militias of the parliament prepare to regain control over the offices of U.N.-backed government of national accord headed by Fayez al-Sarraj.

Sarraj said that he had issued a directive to arrest each one involved in breaking into the High Council of State.

A parliamentary official, who asked to remain anonymous, told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that in the upcoming few days, Sarraj and his government will be thrown out of the government, and in case they resort force, they won’t be allowed to stay in the capital.

The official also hinted that presidential council in the main marine base in Tripoli could be a target.

Government and parliament of Khalifa Ghweil fully enforced its power over the capital, according to the official. He added that Sarraj’s government only has now the marine base.

A security official told Asharq Al-Awsat that clashes erupted between Tripoli factions of the ministry of interior and the presidential security forces that turned against the High Council of the State. The clashes led to the killing of a women and injuring six others. He also said that the situation could escalate.

During the graduation at the police academy, Sarraj said that he gave his orders for the ministry and all security forces to arrest anyone who had planned or was involved in the invasion of state institutions.

Media bureau of Sarraj also reported that he had ordered officials to empty those offices and secure their premises.

Furthermore, media bureau of Sarraj posted images during the graduation. Sarraj also toured Bouslim and al-Khadraa Hospitals.

Justice and Construction Party, political part of the Muslim Brotherhood, condemned the attack on the state council center. The party described the attack as “outlaw actions that will lead to the destabilization of the capital.”

The party also called upon Sarraj to activate the presidential guards and the needed arrangements mentioned in the political agreement. Justice and Construction also asked the international community to take a clear position towards those who are hampering the execution of the agreement.

The U.N. special envoy for Libya, Martin Kobler, tweeted Monday: “Saddened by civilian casualties in Tripoli”. He went on to call for unity in the country.

Drums of War Beat in Libyan Capital