Libya Faces Escalating Security Crisis Amid Political Turmoil
Libya is grappling with severe security challenges following the assassination of Major Abdul Rahman Milad, also known as "Al-Bidja," the commander of the Naval Academy camp in Tripoli. Gunmen ambushed his vehicle in the Janzour suburb of Tripoli, leading to his death. This incident has heightened concerns over the political division within the country, as armed group mobilizations are expected in the capital and surrounding areas.
The assassination has sparked outrage, with Khaled Al-Mishri, head of the Supreme Council of State, mourning Milad's death and emphasizing his contributions to community reconciliation and the Naval Academy's revival after a 14-year hiatus. Al-Mishri has called for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Dark Legacy of Abdul Rahman Milad
Milad was a controversial figure, accused by several countries, including the United States and Britain, of leading a notorious human trafficking operation. His role as a leader in the Libyan Coast Guard in Zawiya, a key departure point for migrants attempting to reach Europe, has drawn significant international scrutiny. In 2018, he was named in a UN Security Council report as the head of one of Libya's most dangerous trafficking gangs, leading to an Interpol arrest warrant and sanctions from the US Treasury.
The ongoing political strife in Libya, characterized by a power struggle between two rival governments, has exacerbated the security situation. The internationally recognized unity government in Tripoli, led by Abdel Hamid Dbeibah, faces off against the eastern-based government of Osama Hamad. This division has made the country vulnerable to violence and instability, as evidenced by the recent assassination and the anticipated rise in armed group activities.
- Abdul Rahman Milad's assassination marks a significant escalation in violence in Libya, where security has been tenuous since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The country has been divided politically and militarily, with various factions vying for control. The presence of armed groups and ongoing conflicts have created a challenging environment for both local citizens and international efforts to stabilize the region. The international community continues to monitor Libya's situation closely, with calls for a unified approach to address the root causes of the political division and enhance security measures to protect civilians.
