Other — 27 April 2016

Apr 27, 2016 | Other Jihadi Actors

The recent gains of the Libyan National Army (LNA) in Benghazi have put significant pressure on jihadi actors in the city, including Ansar Al Sharia (AAS) and the Benghazi Revolutionary Shura Council (BRSC). A new video statement issued by BRSC leader Wisam Bin Hamid on 24 April attempted to motivate the BRSC’s supporters. However, the BRSC’s internal fracturing, as well as the exposure of its cooperation with ISIS and AAS, has eroded its support base. Although these groups continue to resist the LNA’s advance in Sabri, Souq Al Hout and Ganfouda, they have resorted to the use of mines and IEDs as a last ditch attempt to hold their ground.

The withdrawal of ISIS from Derna on 20 April has placed the spotlight on the Derna Mujahedeen Shura Council (DMSC). The DMSC may attempt to make peace with LNA supporters by transitioning facilities such as police stations, courts, prisons and government buildings back to the Libyan state. However, the resumption of LNA airstrikes against DMSC positions since the ISIS withdrawal has rekindled tensions between the two groups.