Major General Saddam Khalifa, Chief of Land Operations for Libya’s National Army, was awarded a doctoral degree in military sciences from Egypt’s Nasser Higher Military Academy for Advanced Strategic Studies in a formal ceremony on Thursday.
The degree was conferred by decree of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the Supreme Commander of the Egyptian Armed Forces.
Khalifa’s completion of the advanced military studies program highlights the close defense ties between Libya and Egypt. His doctoral studies likely focused on counterterrorism strategy, border security operations and protecting national infrastructure.
The graduation ceremony underscored the symbolic importance of an internationally-recognized Libyan military leader receiving such an academic distinction from Egypt, a regional military power. Analysts say it demonstrates Egypt’s support for rebuilding professional security institutions in the neighboring North African nation.
In his role atop the National Army’s land forces, Khalifa has played a central part in operations to combat extremist militant groups and disrupt human trafficking and smuggling networks across Libya in recent years. He has also been instrumental in helping secure the OPEC member’s vital oil fields and export terminals amid the country’s ongoing instability.
Brigadier Saddam Khalifa Emerges as a Prominent Figure in Libyan Politics