2023 Tripoli clashes

In August 2023, clashes broke out in Tripoli, Libya, between the Special Deterrence Force (RADA) and the 444th Combat Brigade, two of the strongest military forces in the city. Both had supported the provisional Government of National Unity during the 2022 Tripoli clashes.^[4] Fighting erupted on 14 August when RADA fighters detained 444th Brigade commander Mahmoud Hamza and lasted until 15 August, which forced the city's main airport to close.^[5] At least 55 people were reported dead.^[6] This was the deadliest armed clash of 2023 in Tripoli.^[7]

2023 Tripoli clashes
Part of the Libyan Crisis
Date 14 August to 15 August 2023 Location Tripoli, Libya Result Truce; Firearm ceasefire[1] Mahmoud Hamza (444th brigade leader) released [2] 444th brigade maintain control of all areas
Belligerents
444th Infantry Brigade	RADA Special Deterrence Forces
Commanders and leaders
Mahmoud Hamza	Abdul Raouf Kara[3]
Strength
Unknown	Unknown
At least 55 people were killed and 146 others injured

See also

• 2022 Tripoli clashes
• 2025 Tripoli clashes

References

1. "Libyan factions pause Tripoli battle with 27 dead". Reuters. 15 August 2023.
2. "Captured Libyan commander rejoins unit after clashes kill 55". Reuters. 17 August 2023.
3. "Libya: 27 killed in Tripoli clashes". Azertag. 16 August 2023.
4. "Libyan factions pause Tripoli battle with 27 dead". Reuters. 2023-08-15. Retrieved 2023-08-17.
5. "Libya militias battle in Tripoli after commander's arrest". BBC News. 2023-08-16. Retrieved 2023-08-17.
6. Alhenawi, Ruba (2023-08-16). "At least 55 dead following clashes between rival factions in Libya". CNN. Retrieved 2023-08-17.
7. Abdulrahim, Raja; Goldman, Russell (2023-08-17). "Renewed Violence in Libya Reflects Power of Militias". The New York Times. Retrieved 2023-08-17.