Tripoli Conflicts (May 2025)

The Tripoli Clashes (May 2025) were armed conflicts that occurred in Tripoli the capital of Libya between 12 and 14 May 2025 and began with the death of Abdulgani al-Kikli leader of the Stability Support Apparatus. The events triggered a security crisis in densely populated neighborhoods and disrupted essential public services such as health care education and transportation.

Origins of the Clashes and the Death of al-Kikli

On 12 May 2025 armed clashes erupted in the Tripoli districts of Abu Salim Salahaddin Ayn Zara Ras Hasan and Bin Ashur. It was reported that these developments began with the death of Abdulgani al-Kikli leader of the Stability Support Apparatus SSA at the headquarters of the 444th Brigade. The cause of al-Kikli’s death and the purpose of his presence at the headquarters have not been officially disclosed; however local media suggested that his death occurred following a security meeting attended by government officials.

The 444th Brigade is a military unit under the Ministry of Defense and it was confirmed that al-Kikli died while in contact with this unit. Colonel Mahmud Hamza commander of the 444th Brigade issued an ambiguous statement on his social media account describing the events of the night as “when one of the militia oppressors was killed” and characterizing them as “moments when treachery turned its weapons against honesty.”

Security Measures and Disruptions to Public Services

Following the outbreak of clashes the Libyan Ministry of Interior called on citizens to remain in their homes. The Ministry of Health placed all health facilities across Tripoli on high alert. The Ministry of Education granted local authorities the authority to suspend classes and examinations. Tripoli University announced an indefinite suspension of academic activities.

A view from the Abu Salim district in the capital of Libya Tripoli where clashes occurred and was brought under control by security forces 13 May 2025 – Anadolu Agency

Flights at Mitiga International Airport were temporarily suspended although airport authorities stated that the airspace remained technically open. The Libyan Red Crescent’s Tripoli branch reported that it had raised its alert level to the highest possible status.

Government Intervention and Official Statements

On 13 May 2025 Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh announced that operations conducted by units under the Ministry of Defense in Tripoli had been successfully completed. Dbeibeh stated that control had been restored in the Abu Salim district and emphasized that state institutions possessed the capacity to ensure the country’s security.

The Prime Minister underscored that irregular armed groups must be disbanded and that only state institutions should hold authority. The Ministry of Defense confirmed that its own units participated in the clashes and stated that the objective of the operations was to reestablish stability.

Resumption of the Clashes

As of the morning of 14 May 2025 armed clashes resumed in the Tripoli neighborhoods of Ayn Zara Ras Hasan and Bin Ashur. According to local sources intense fighting occurred between units under the Ministry of Defense and the Rada militia. On the same day it was again announced that flights at Mitiga Airport had been suspended and that education had been halted in certain areas.

International Reactions and Calls for a Ceasefire

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya UNSMIL stated that it had closely monitored developments in Tripoli during the nights of 12 and 13 May and expressed deep concern over the escalation of armed clashes in densely populated neighborhoods. The mission called on all parties to immediately declare a ceasefire and to avoid inflammatory actions.

UNSMIL also affirmed its support for local community leaders and opinion leaders mediating efforts and emphasized that the protection of civilians was the responsibility of all parties. The U.S. Embassy issued a similar statement calling for the immediate cessation of hostilities.

Casualties and Damage

The Libyan Emergency Medical and Support Center reported on 13 May that six bodies had been recovered from the conflict zones in Abu Salim. Five injured persons including one in critical condition were transported to Tripoli University Hospital.

A view from the Abu Salim district in the capital of Libya Tripoli where clashes occurred and was brought under control by security forces 13 May 2025 – Anadolu Agency

Armored vehicles and civilian automobiles sustained heavy damage during the clashes and several roads in the city were temporarily closed to traffic. Videos shared on social media showed intense fighting between security forces and militias on the streets of Tripoli.