Oct 14, 2023. Posted by Balkan Periscope - Hellas
Benghazi, a
city long enveloped in political turbulence, is yet again in the international
spotlight following a surge in violence. This has resulted in multiple
casualties, and a potentially significant political assassination.
Othman Abduljalil, the Libyan Parliament-designated Health Minister, publicly relayed the dire situation, revealing that the skirmishes have yielded six deaths and eight injuries among Libyan National Army (LNA) forces.
Othman Abduljalil
The intense
confrontations also reportedly led to the death of nine militants, and wounded
another eight.
During a
press conference at the Internal Security Agency headquarters, the Minister
named the deceased, offering a sombre reminder of the tangible human cost of
the conflict.
In an even
more startling development, credible sources have reported the death of
Brigadier Mahdi Al-Barghathi, former Defence Minister in the Government of
National Accord (GNA), post his arrest.
Despite
assertions from the military prosecutor linked to the LNA General Command about
Al-Barghathi suffering “serious and severe injuries” during altercations with
security forces, there’s scepticism due to the lack of visible injuries in the
subsequently leaked arrest video. The validation of these claims, and the
details of Al-Barghathi’s alleged death are currently mired in uncertainty.
Abduljalil
further detailed that the injuries vary from critical to moderate. Formalities
have been followed with respect to the deceased, coordinating with the Public
Prosecutor’s Office for burials, while the injured are receiving requisite
medical attention.
This recent
outbreak of violence in Benghazi is spotlighting Libya’s fraught political
landscape, showcasing an urgent need for strategic dialogue and intervention.
This may be able to usher in a semblance of stability in the conflict-afflicted
region.
The
unfolding scenario paints a stark picture of the continuous challenges faced by
the Libyan state, and its people, with wider implications for regional
stability and international relations.
Libyan Review