A ceasefire has been implemented across Tripoli after days of renewed armed clashes rocked the Libyan capital, the country’s Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday.
According to a statement from the ministry, the ceasefire is part of a broader effort to protect civilians, maintain public order, and prevent further escalation. It confirmed that regular army units, in coordination with security agencies, have deployed neutral forces to key flashpoints across the city to uphold the truce and prevent renewed violence.
The ministry urged all armed groups to strictly adhere to the ceasefire and avoid any actions that could reignite conflict.
Witnesses reported heavy fighting earlier on Wednesday in several districts, including Ain Zara, Ras Hassan, and Bin Ashur. The unrest led to a mass escape from Al-Jadida Prison in eastern Tripoli, with police warning that many of the fugitives were serving sentences for serious crimes. Authorities fear the escape could worsen the fragile security situation.
The violence has also disrupted daily life in the capital. Flights at Mitiga International Airport were suspended, and schools across Tripoli were closed by order of the Education Ministry.
Clashes initially broke out on Monday following the reported death of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, leader of the Stability Support Apparatus—a powerful militia aligned with the Presidential Council.
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) voiced alarm over the fighting, warning of grave risks to civilians in densely populated neighborhoods and urging an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
Libya has faced continued instability since the 2011 uprising that toppled longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi, with rival factions vying for control and periodic outbreaks of violence undermining efforts toward lasting peace.