Footage filmed on Wednesday shows forces loyal to Libya’s Government of National Accord (GNA) approaching Tripoli International Airport, a key strategic location some 24km (15mi) south of the capital mainly held by forces belonging to General Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA).
The operation, which has been dubbed ‘Volcano of Rage’, was launched by the GNA in a bid to oust Haftar’s forces and reaffirm control over the area.
The LNA, which controls eastern Libya, is aiming to take territory from the UN-backed GNA, including the capital Tripoli.
The country has been split between the two rivals since 2014. Haftar’s efforts to capture Tripoli have met resistance from GNA-affiliated armed groups.