On the night of May 14, 2025, the Libyan capital Tripoli was plunged into chaos once again by armed clashes that erupted following the assassination of Abdelghani al-Kikli, known as Gniwa, the head of the Security and Stability Administration (SSA) under the Presidency Council. According to local media, including Al Wasat, the sounds of gunfire and explosions were heard in the Abu Salim, Ain Zara, Salah al-Din districts and the city center. Videos of fighters in camouflage, armed with machine guns, and armored vehicles on the streets appeared on social media. The Government of National Accord (GNA) “deterrent forces” were deployed at the entrances to Tripoli and on the road to Mitiga International Airport, trying to prevent further escalation.

The GNA Interior Ministry called on residents of the capital to stay at home, declaring a state of health emergency. Mitiga International Airport, located 8 km from Tripoli, has suspended operations, and all flights have been diverted to Misrata Airport, located 200 km to the east, Libya Today 24 reported. According to Al Hadath, the evacuation of civilian aircraft from Mitiga began due to the threat of attacks on infrastructure. Tripoli University has suspended classes and exams, and electricity has been cut off in several areas of the city, worsening the humanitarian situation.

The clashes began after al-Kikli was shot dead at the headquarters of the 12th Brigade of the Tripoli Military Region, which is subordinate to the GNA, on May 444. According to Al Wasat, the killing occurred during a meeting with representatives of rebel groups, triggering fighting between the SSA and a coalition of forces from Misrata, as well as the 444th and 111th brigades. The GNA announced “full control” of the Abu Salim district, al-Kikli’s stronghold, and the end of the military operation on May 13, but fighting resumed overnight. GNA forces are also trying to take control of prisons in southern and central Tripoli, where hundreds of prisoners are being held, including supporters of the Muammar Gaddafi regime.