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**Libya Gripped by Renewed Violence and Political Turmoil Following Militia Leader’s Death**

**Tripoli, Libya** – Libya is facing renewed unrest as protests escalate in the wake of the killing of a prominent militia commander. A police officer was killed in Tripoli Friday during what the government described as an “attempted assault” on the prime minister’s office, amidst widespread demonstrations calling for Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah to step down. According to government statements, the officer was fatally shot by unknown assailants during an incident involving protesters attempting to set fire to the building.

The protests, fueled by public frustration with the security situation and stalled elections, follow a week of deadly clashes in Tripoli triggered by the death of militia leader Abdelghani al-Kikli, also known as Gheniwa. At least eight civilians have died in the violence.

The political fallout has been significant. Economy and Trade Minister Mohamed al-Hawij, Local Government Minister Badr Eddin al-Tumi, and Minister of Housing Abu Bakr al-Ghawi have reportedly resigned in support of the protesters.

While demonstrations against Dbeibah took place in Tripoli, counter-protests supporting the Prime Minister and his government were reported in the city of Misrata.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has urged restraint and emphasized the right to peaceful protest, while Egypt has expressed concern, advising its citizens in Libya to take precautions.

Libya has been mired in conflict and political instability since the 2011 uprising. Dbeibah’s Government of National Unity (GNU) controls western Libya, while a rival administration, backed by Khalifa Haftar, governs the east. Elections, initially scheduled for late 2021, have been indefinitely postponed due to ongoing disputes and security concerns.

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