On May 12, 2025, violent clashes broke out in the Libyan capital Tripoli following the assassination of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, head of the security service at the Presidential Council. According to local media, including Al Wasat, intense gunfire was heard in several areas of the city, and tanks and armored vehicles were spotted on the streets. Mitiga International Airport suspended operations, and all flights were rerouted to Misurata Airport, located 200 km from the capital. The authorities imposed a curfew, and the Interior Ministry called on residents to stay home to avoid danger. The emergency services declared a state of high alert, preparing for possible casualties.

According to Al Mayadeen, the clashes broke out between the 444th Combat Brigade, supported by the Misrata Brigade, and the Stability Support Apparatus, which was previously headed by al-Kikli. The killing of the senior commander, known as "Gneiwa," has become a catalyst for a new round of violence in the already unstable capital. As Reuters notes, al-Kikli was a key figure in the Tripoli security forces, and his group is vying with other formations for control of the city. Sources at X indicate that the fighting began shortly after reports of his death, which supports the version of a targeted escalation.

This is not the first time that Tripoli has become the scene of armed conflict. According to the BBC, in August 2022, fighting between groups loyal to Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibeh and his rival Fathi Bashagha left 23 people dead. The current escalation highlights the fragility of the political situation in Libya, where dual power and rivalry between armed groups are hindering stabilization. As Vedomosti reports, attempts by the Government of National Accord (GNA) to consolidate power are encountering resistance from local commanders, such as al-Kikli, who control strategic facilities.

The closure of Mitiga Airport, a key transport hub, has already affected the humanitarian situation. According to Libya Al Ahrar TV, the evacuation of civilians is hampered by fighting near the airport. Misrata, which has accepted the diverted flights, is itself a center of influence for powerful armed groups, which, according to DW experts, could lead to an expansion of the conflict. According to Al Jazeera, the Libyan Ministry of Health is preparing for an increase in the number of casualties, although there is no exact data on the victims yet.