January 2nd, 2023

Libya Daily

Reporting from Benghazi

On the first day of the new year, Supreme Commander Haftar has appeared before eager crowds to give a speech about the state of LNA-controlled territory and Libya as a whole. Overall, he has noted that prospects for internal security are improving, as control over Eastern Libya continues to be consolidated and policing operations mop up Islamist terror cells. However, he has expressed concern over the number of clashes between armed groups in and around Tripoli, stating that the refusal of Dbeibah’s government to step down after the expiration of its mandate risks sending the country into a renewed period of violence.

“Dbeibah’s decision to indefinitely postpone elections has put serious strain on the peace process. That is why parliament passed a vote of no confidence - because he does not wish to fulfill the duties he was entrusted with as the leader of the unity cabinet, instead he obstructs diplomacy to enrich his benefactors. This may be his last chance to come to the table and negotiate a deal in good faith - a deal that benefits the people of Libya.”

Despite his dovish tone yesterday, international onlookers have often accused Haftar of being the major spoiler in the Libyan Peace Process. In recent months, militias aligned with the LNA have been the instigators of numerous skirmishes in Western Libya, particularly in towns like Sabratha and Misrata where opposing groups operate on blurry lines of control. Some analysts believe this new tone may signal a softening of the LNA’s position, but many remain skeptical, calling it a cheap tactic to shift the blame for the political deadlock onto Tripoli. Regardless, Haftar’s speech was well received in among his supporters, possibly signaling a period of calm amid mounting violence.