May 2025 Clash in Tripoli

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May 2025 Clash in Tripoli

On Monday, May 12, 2025, a clash broke out between Brigade 444 and the Stabilty Support Apparatus (SSA) in Tripoli, Libya. This was preceded by a meeting between the SSA and leaders of security organizations supporting the Government of National Unity (GNU). Negotiations began with no resolution. The leader of the SSA, Abdelghani al-Kikli, was killed during the meeting at the Tebkali military camp of Brigade 444 late on Monday. The location of the shooting is in southeast Tripoli.

Rising Tensions. The meeting was scheduled in an attempt to de-escalate mounting tensions among armed factions and to mediate the attempt by al-Kikli to gain more control over key government institutions. The clash was preceded by demands from the Government of National Unity's (GNU) Prime Minister Abdulhamid Debaiba for concessions from the SSA. Days earlier the Misrata-led Joint Operations Force conducted an attack against the Stability Support Force in Khoms.

GNUs Fading Power. Over the past few years the GNU's Prime Minister has been losing influence and seeing a loss of control of Libya's finances. There was concern that his enemies in Tripoli might make a move to replace him; so he had to make a move to consolidate his power in Tripoli. In the past, he had relied on militias to support his government in exchange for money being provided through various schemes to enrich the militia leaders. However, it was feared that several of these quasi-friendly militias might attempt to replace him with a rival who would be in Field Marshal Haftar's (eastern Libya regime) camp.

Meeting Turns Violent. The meeting at Brigade 444's Tebkali camp turned violent when bodyguards from the rival groups exchanged fire outside of the gatherning. Shortly after the death of al Kikli the 444 went on the offensive against the SSA.

The SSA seems to have immediately collapsed; with al-Kikli's subordinates quickly fleeing Tripoli. This resulted in the capture of all parts of Tripoli held by the SSA (mostly the southern Tripoli district of Abu salim) and the elimination of most of the SSA as a fighting force. Some SSA units fell back to Mitiga Airport, a stronghold of the Special Deterrence Force (SDF).

The actions of Brigade 444 were an initial victory - the death of Kikli, fragmentation of the SSA, and occupation of the SSA's territorial base in Abu Salim. However, the offensive provoked fighting between factions for and against Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dabaiba.

Shortly after the fighting with the SSA ended, Brigade 444 attacked positions held by the Special Deterrence Force (SDF); although some reports say that the SDF attacked positions of the 444. Within 24 hours of the 444 - SDF hostilities a ceasefire began. Other militias and security organizations mobilized; some allied with the SDF and others allied with the Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Debaiba. The fighting between 444 and the SDF (and their respective allies) was the worst fighting seen in Tripoli for several years.

Zawiya Militias. During the fight between 444 and the SDF, militias and security forces moved from Zawiya to Tripoli posturing in postions within western Tripoli. It is unknown which side these forces were aligned with or if they took part in any hostilities although some social media accounts say it was in opposition to the GNU's moves against the SSA and SDF.

Zintan Militias. Units from Zintan moved into the outside surroundings of Tripoli as well.

Misrata Miltias. The elite of Misrata have criticized Dbaiba for his actions in Tripoli and have attempted to distance themselves from the PM's actions. Most of the fighting forces of Misrata held in place fearing the possible intrusion of the Libyan National Army (LNA) under Field Marshal Haftar's control.

What Made Al-Kikli a Target? The leader of the SSA had reach into many of the governmental and financial institutions of Tripoli. One of the conflict areas between the GNU and Al-Kikli was over control of the state-owned Libyan Telecommunicatons Holding Company. Control of the company was not only important because of the substantial financial returns; it also had to do with its vital intelligence role. The entity in control of the company gains access to vast amounts of sensitive data and information. Al-Kikl was also involved in many other government institutions besides the Telco.

Security Reforms. The GNU PM announced a series of security reforms after the killing of al-Kikli. The PM announced that the Directorate of Judicial Security would be dissolved.

DCIM Disolved. Reports indicate that the Government of National Unity has officially dissolved the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM). It announced that all of its assets are to be transferred to a department under the Ministry of Interior. 2.

Security Organizations Loyal to GNU. The most loyal security organizations that support the GNU are Brigade 444, 111th Brigade, and the Joint Operations Force. Other militias are supportive to a degree, neutal, or are anti-Dbaiba.

Misrata Forces. Most of the security organizations based in Misrata refrained from engaging in the conflict. One reason was the mobilization of units of the LAAF and their repositioning in Sirte. It is believed that the Joint Operations Force (JOF) and the 112th Brigade took part in the hostilities.

Zawiya Forces. The majority of the security organizations of Zawiya seemed to be united in their dissatisfaction with the GNU. Many of the major units (First Field Force, 135 Bn, 103 Bn, and others) seemed to be involved in the moving of units into the western areas of Tripoli; advancing (by May 14th) as far as al-Seyaheyya and al-Serraj. Most social media reports indicate that the Zawiya militias may be siding with the SDF.

Zintan Forces. During the May 2025 conflict security organizations from Zintan loyal to Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi moved towards Tripoli. These Zintan forces appeared to have sided with the GNU. Some Zintan forces that were under the command of General Usama al-Juwaili may have been siding with the SDF.

Foreigners Evacuated. Some nations were conducting evacuations of their citizens from Tripoli. It was reported that Italy had over 70 citizens in Tripoli; come seeking refuge in a large hotel. Italy had organized evacuation flights for its citizens from Misrata airport located 200 kilometers to the east. 3.

Al-Menfi and Political Maneuvering. Mohamed Al-Menfi, the President of the Presidency Council, is working behind the scenes during this current period of conflict and unrest - seeking to solidify his position and to ensure and grow his influence on the political scene remains intact. He refused to go along with Prime Minister Dabaiba's order to dissolve Radaa. He stepped in to rescind some of Dbeibeh's executive orders.

Libya Parliament (Eastern Zone). The Deputy Rapporteur of the House of Representatives (HoR), Sabah Jumaa, revealed that the parliment will be reviewing the files of candidates for the leadership of the new unified government. The HOR will begin formal deliberations beginning May 19, 2025, for forming the new government.

Haftar's Reaction. The Libyan National Army (LNA) has moved some of its units from the Benghazi area to Sirte, a city on the Mediterranean located very close to the line of demarkation dividing the east and west zones of Libya. Undoubtedly, Haftar in most likely in communication with General Juwaili of Zintan and the Buzeriba family based in Abu Surra of Zawiya. It should be remembered that upon the cessation of fighting between Tripoli militias in 2019; Haftar made a move to capture Tripoli - coming close, but stopped with the intervention of Turkey.

Mass Graves in Abu Saleem. Various news reports and GNU statements have stated that there is an ongoing investigation about the possible presence of mass graves within the zoo in the Abu Saleem municipality that was formerly under the control of the Security Stability Apparatus. 7. The General Authority for the Search and Identification of Missing Persons (GASIMP) is conducting an investigation.

Demarkation Area. A narrow strip of territory running from the Tripoli seaport to the south south-east for several miles is occupied by "neutral" formations fo the 52nd, 222nd, and 166th (or 461st Inf?).

Timeline

May 12, 2025, Monday

Tensions had been rising throughout the day. On the morning of May 12, the bulkd of the First Support Force of Muhammed Bahroun had deployed about 200 vehicles to Tripoli in support of Ghinaywa. The 63rd (Misrata) Infantry Brigade also deployed to Tripoli.

The leader of the SSA, Abdelghani al-Kikli, was killed during an evening meeting with the leader of Brigade 444 at the Tekbali military camp of the 444. It appears that a gunfight led to the deaths of Ghneiwa and his bodyguards. Shortly after the death of al Kikli the 444 went on the offensive against the SSA. All areas of SSA-controlled Tripoli were occupied by elements of the 444 and allied security organizations. Subordinates of al-Kikli are believed to have fled to Zawiya. The First Field Force and other Zawiya militias returned to Zawiya. Lufti al-Harari, the head of the Tripoli Internal Security Agency (ISA) and deputy head of the SSA has reportedly been captured.

The elimination of the SSA and its leader did away with a large militia who's leader was known for pursuing his own agenda and who worked behind the scenes to limit the Prime Ministers power. By the end of Monday Dbaiba had what many observers had considered a very successful day. However, the events that followed the next day would seem to unravel his gains.

May 13, 2025, Tuesday

Fighting Ensues. On Tuesday fighting began in Tripoli - mostly in the Abu Salim district as well as the Mashrou Al-Hadhba district with elements of the SSA that did not flee. On the morning of May 13, The GNU announced it has assumed "full" control over the Abu Salim area.

Security in Abu Salim. The Ministry of Interior tasked the Security Directorates Support Agency with providing security for the former enclave of the SSA. There was an assassination attempt on the commander of the DSA on Wednesday night in the Abu Salim area. Colonel Ali Al-Jabri had gone to the area to meet with protesters and listen to their demands. While he was speaking with the demonstrators some individuals attempted an assassination of Al-Jabri. 4.

GNU and SDF Clash. A bout of violent clashes between forces aligned with the GNU and the Special Deterrence Force (SDF) began on Tuesday evening (?) that took place over a period of 24 hours. The clash is reported to have been sparked by the attack on the SSA as well has an announced mandate by PM Dbeiba that the SDF-affilitated Judicial Police would have to vacate several facilities: The Maqarr al-Naqliyya (Transport Authority), al-Sijn al-Maftouh (Open Prison), and istirahat al-Sindibad (aka "al-Rajma). 1.

PM Calls for Dissolution of the Judicial Police. Dabaiba attempted to dissolve the Judicial Police, a police organization allied with the Radaa Security Deterrence Force (SDF). This added to the tension between the SDF and the GNU.

Leadership of Internal Security Agency (ISA). Dabaiba replaced the head of the ISA with a leader more supportive of the GNU. Brigadier General Mustafa Ali al-Wahishi was appointed as the new head of the ISA. Al-Wahishi was formerly the Director of the Central Security Department of the Intelligence Service.

PFG Reassigned? It is rumored that the PM also transferred the Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG) to the Ministry of Interior.

Ceasefire. A agreement was reached between the fighting groups. Most of the SSA left their positions. Senior leaders of the SSA departed Tripoli. The SDF have called for the resignation of the Minister of Interior, Imad Trabelsi and the immediate dissolution of the 444 Brigade. The fighting between the GNU forces and Radaa ended with no real resolution.

Protests. Hundreds of prostesters gathered in Martyr Square in downtown Tripoli denouncing the Dabaiba regime.

Other Militias. Many of the security organizations in Tripoli as well as from Zawiya, Zintan, and Misrata mobilized. Some began movements toward Tripoli. Noteably, the militias in Zawiya seemed to present a united front in its movement toward Tripoli in support of the Special Deterrence Force.

May 14, 2025, Wednesday

There are reports that Radaa launched attacks in the early morning of May 14. The SDF and allies from Souq al-Jouma and Tajoura seized territory inside the 2nd Ring Road in eastern Tripoli. Zawiya forces led by "The Rat", Muhammed Baroun, advanced from the west towards Tripoli and attacked the Zintani-led Public Security force in al-Seyaheyya and al-Serraj - taking the Regata Diplomatic Resort. Clashes stook place between the SDF and 444 Brigade in key areas of the city to include the port of Tripoli. The fighting eased towards the end of the day.

Protests in downtown Tripoli continued in the evening and seem to have gained more support from students and supporters of the anti-GNU faction.

May 15, 2025, Thursday

It was announced that flights would resume at Mitiga Airport. Demonstrations against the Debaiba regime took place once again, one of them in the Central Square of Tripoli. An agreement was reached among the Tripoli security organizations for all groups to withdraw to their respective bases. There was talk of a future broader agreement on territorial delimitations, control over headquarters, and institutional arrangements. Protests took place once again in Martyr Square in downtown Tripoli calling for a new government.

Protests Continue. Thousands of protesters continue to demonstrate against the Dabaiba regime, calling for the resignation of the Prime Minister. There have been news reports of protesters being dispersed and shot at with live ammunition by GNU-aligned forces in Martyrs Square and near the GNU HQ in Treeg al-Sikka.

Resignation of Government Officials. A number of ministerial resignations took place over the discontent with the Dabaiba regime. 5. The following have resigned:

jamal Salem Shaaban, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labor.
Nazha Ashour, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice.
Ramadan Abu Janah Bujanah, Acting Health Minster.
Dr. Tawfiq Othman, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health.
Tawfiq Al-Dersi, Deputy Minister of Health.
Mohammed al-Huwaij, Economy and Trade Minister.
Mohamed Quneidi, Minister
Badr al-Deen al-Tumi, Local Government Minister.
Mohammed Qanidi, Minister of Water Resources
Faraj Kneidi, Water Resources Undersecretary
Abu Bakr al-Ghawi, Housing, Utilities, and Construction Minister
Mabruka Toughi, Culture Minister

Western Coast in Revolt. As of mid-May, it appeared that the entire western coast, extending from western Tripoli (Wersherfana) to Zuwara, is disapproving of the Prime Minister's rule. Those elements that did support Dabaiba now seem to be opposed to the PM.

May 17, 2025, Saturday

Some banks based in eastern Libya but with branches in western Libya are entering into "a state of partial disobedience" due to the security situation in Tripoli and lack of adequate security for financial institutions and their employees. More demonstrations are taking place in central Tripoli demanding an end to the GNU and calls for forming a new government.

Prime Minister Dbaiba addressed the Libyan people in a speech where he defended the actions taken against the Special Stability Apparatus on May 12, 2025. Dbaiba stated that Al-Kikli controled six banks in the coutnry and that he was responsible for human rights violations. He also mentioned Osama Njeem, the head of the Judicial Police and who receives protection from the Special Deterrence Force (SDF) and who has an existing warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

May 18, 2025, Sunday

University Students in Tripoli and GNU opponents continued to stage anti-GNU protests and conduct road closures in downtown Tripoli. This included stoppages along the second ring road. Many of the main roads have had traffic disrupted.

On May 18, the Prime Minister directed the removal of Camp 77 from the capital and its inclusion in the "Life Park" project. It will become an open space for citizens within a comprehensive plan to reorganize the city. The capital's zoo will have immediate maintenance and rehabilitation work to open it to families within two weeks.

May 20, 2025, Tuesday

The Prime Minister is coming under increasing pressure to step aside. The House of Representatives (eastern Libya) and High State Council under Khaled al-Mishri are taking efforts to appoint a new unified government to replace the GNU. The HoR is reviewing prime ministerial candidates this week.

May 21, 2025, Wednesday

Bodies Recovered in Abu Salim. The Ministry of Interior has revealed the discovery of 58 unidentified remains inside a morgue refrigerator at the Abu Salim Accident Hospital that was previously under the control of the Stabilization Support Apparatus. 7. The President of the Presidencial Council, Mohamed AL-Menfi, announced that the Presidential Council has the authority to appoint a prime minister.

May 23, 2025, Friday

Major demonstrations took place again on Friday night in Tripoli. Road blockages and tire burnings are prevalent. Mostly young people mobilized from Tripoli and other nearby cities took part in the gathering of thousands with the message that both the regimes in the east and west need to be replaced. Many are calling for the Presidency Council to step in and appoint a transitional government. It is reported that members of Brigade 444 not in uniform took part in a pro-Debaiba demonstration - as well as students who were paid 500 dinar for participation.

May 24, 2025, Saturday

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry announced that 71 citizens have returned home due to tensions in Tripoli. Egypt had evacuated 82 nationals from Libya the previoius week. The city remains relatively quiet other than the nightly protests and continued mobilization of militias and security organizations within Tripoli. The head of the Presidency Council, Mohamed Menfi, called on all Libyans to continue their peaceful demonstrations in various cities.

May 31, 2025, Saturday

Protests against the Dbaiba government continue to take place on Friday nights in Martyr Square and outside the hqs of the United Nations mission in Libya. They are getting smaller and smaller as each weeks goes by. The SDF seems to have lost the initial support that it enjoyed from some of the militia groups and political elite from Zintan, Misrata, and Zawiya.

News Articles

May 24, 2025, "Protests in Tripoli and other cities call for the ouster of all political bodies", Libya Observer. Thousands of protesters gathered in Tripoli, Misrata, Sabratha, and other cities demanding the departure of the Government of National Unity, all political bodies of east and west Libya, and the dismantling of armed militias.

May 24, 2025, "Libya's latest bout of violence highlights the urgent need for intervention", by Tarek Megerisi, al Majalla. The UN desperately needs to step into the feuding space, and states with a vested interest in Libya's stability, from Europe to the Middle East and Africa, must back these efforts.

May 21, 2025, "In Tripoli, A War on Militias Quickly Becomes a War of Miltias", by Emadeddin Badi, Middle East Council on Global Affairs.

May 14, 2025, "Fresh Gunbattles Rock Libya Capital After Brief Lull", Barrons.

May 14, 2025, "PM Dbeibah declares end of parallel security forces", Libya Observer.

May 14, 2025, "The Unraveling of 'Stability' in Tripoli", emadbadi.com.

May 14, 2025, "Libya's Capital Engulfed by Fresh Fighting", by Claudia Gazzini, International Crisis Group.

Endnotes

1. "The Unraveling of 'Stability' in Tripoli", by Emadeddin Badi, May 14, 2025.

2. DCIM dissolved: Twitter post by @RefugeesinLibya, May 13, 2025.
https://x.com/RefugeesinLibya/status/1922302186911826131

3. Italian evacuation flights reported in "Italy Organises Evacuation Flights from Libya", Libya Review, May 15, 2025. See also "Foreign Governments Evacuate Citizens from Tripoli", Libya Review, May 15, 2025.

4. For more on the attempted assassination of Colonel Ali Al-Jabri see "Security Directorates Support Agency thwarts assassination of its commander in Abu Salim", Libya Observer, May 15, 2025.

5. On the resignations of government officials: "Libyan protesters demand prime minister quit as three ministers resign", The Globe and Mail, May 16, 2025. "Minsters resign as protests intensify in Tripoli", Libyan Express, May 17, 2025.

6. For more on mass graves in Abu Saleem see "GASIMP receives reports of mass graves in Abu Saleem", Libya Observer, May 17, 2025.

7. Bodies recovered - "58 unidentified bodies discovered in Abu Salim Hospital Morgue", Libya Observer, May 21, 2025.

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