The Government of National Unity (GNU) says it has taken full control of Abu Salim, a key district in the capital Tripoli, following a military operation launched amid fierce clashes with armed groups. Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah announced late Monday that the operation had “ended successfully,” praising security forces for what he called a “major achievement” in restoring order and asserting state authority.
Writing on social media, Dbeibah commended the Ministries of Defence and Interior, as well as the army and police, saying: “This is a decisive step toward ending irregular armed groups and reinforcing the principle that there is no place in Libya except for state institutions and the rule of law.” The Ministry of Defence later confirmed the end of operations, saying a long-term plan to stabilise the area would now be implemented.
Abu Salim is a stronghold of the Stability Support Apparatus, a powerful militia led by Abdul Ghani al-Kikli — widely known as “Ghnewa.” Fighting erupted after reports circulated claiming Ghnewa had been killed, although the circumstances remain unclear. Armed clashes spread rapidly across parts of the capital, forcing the closure of roads and businesses and sparking panic among residents.
On Tuesday, the Emergency Medicine and Support Centre confirmed the recovery of six bodies from areas surrounding Abu Salim after the fighting subsided.
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed “grave concern” over the escalating violence, particularly the use of heavy weapons in densely populated civilian areas. It called on all parties to exercise restraint and protect civilians. Local emergency services declared a state of alert and urged residents near conflict zones to remain indoors.
The GNU’s Interior Ministry said it was “closely monitoring” developments and working to restore calm in Tripoli’s southern and western suburbs. Social media footage appeared to show government-aligned forces capturing key buildings formerly occupied by the Stability Support Apparatus and the affiliated Internal Security Agency.
