Libya is in crisis once again. The capital, Tripoli, is seeing some of the worst violence in years. What were once busy streets are now battlegrounds, with residents trapped indoors and militias openly fighting over power and territory.

What Triggered the Clashes?

It all began with the assassination of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, known locally as Gheniwa, the head of the Stability Support Apparatus. His death set off a chain reaction of revenge attacks and violent clashes that quickly spread through several neighborhoods in Tripoli.

Daily Life Comes to a Halt

In just a few days, Tripoli has been rocked by gunfire, explosions, and full-on street battles. Schools are closed, emergency curfews are in place, and families are sheltering in fear. Many are too scared to leave their homes, while others have already been forced to flee.

There are growing concerns about civilian casualties, with homes damaged and basic services cut off in some areas.

A Warning from the United Nations

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has called for an immediate ceasefire. They’ve also warned that attacking civilians or infrastructure could be considered war crimes. But so far, the fighting hasn’t stopped.

A Country Divided Since 2011

This isn’t just a sudden outburst of violence — it’s a symptom of Libya’s long-running instability. Ever since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the country has been split between two rival governments.

On one side is the UN-recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) based in Tripoli and led by Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh. On the other is the Government of National Stability in the east, supported by Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army. The divide has also pulled in foreign players, with Turkey backing the GNU and Egypt, the UAE, and Russia supporting Haftar.

Why Egypt Is Watching Closely

Libya’s stability directly impacts Egypt, especially when it comes to border security and regional influence. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has made it clear that Egypt wants a unified Libyan government without foreign meddling.

Since the latest outbreak of violence, Egypt has tightened security along its western border and renewed its calls for a political solution led by Libyans themselves.

Humanitarian Toll and Ongoing Suffering

While politics dominate headlines, the human cost of this conflict keeps rising. Thousands of Libyans are displaced, with homes destroyed and access to food, water, and medical care becoming harder by the day. The devastating floods in 2023 had already left eastern Libya reeling — now Tripoli is facing its own nightmare.

Egyptians in Libya Also at Risk

The violence is also affecting Egyptians living and working in Libya. One high-profile example is Hossam El-Badry, former coach of Al Ahly and current manager of Ahli Tripoli. Reports say he’s stuck in his hotel due to security concerns, and all football activities have been suspended.

Students Caught in the Crossfire

More than 200 Egyptian students in Libya are desperately asking to return home. They’ve shared terrifying stories — rockets landing near their dorms, militias raiding homes, and robberies turning violent. Some say they’ve had no access to clean water or food for days.

One student underwent emergency surgery after being stabbed during a robbery, while another said he narrowly escaped crossfire near a military compound.

Students Plead for Online Study Option

Many students are now appealing to Egypt’s Ministry of Higher Education to let them continue their studies remotely until it’s safe to return. Some universities have offered temporary support, but no official decision has been made yet.

What Comes Next?

Libya is on the edge, again. The chaos in Tripoli is a stark reminder that the conflict is far from over. For those living there — Libyans and Egyptians alike — daily life has come to a frightening standstill.

If you or someone you know is in Libya, contact the Egyptian embassy and stay updated through official channels. The situation is changing rapidly, and safety is the top priority.