Libya – American researcher and analyst Michael Rubin stated in a Washington Examiner article that Libya is not entirely safe. He noted that the Libyan Armed Forces cleared their region of militias. However, remnants of Ansar al-Sharia and ISIS found a safe haven in and around Tripoli.
Rubin said Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar sought to complete his mission in June 2020. Then Turkey sent drones to its proxies in Tripoli. He believes this had a devastating impact.
The researcher criticized the U.S. State Department for supporting the Tripoli government based on international recognition. He called this circular logic. He argued it ignores government overreach and protects Islamist militias. Rubin added that few American diplomats recall that Islamists lost Libyan elections decisively. They then refused to accept the results.
Rubin stated that former Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and John Kerry urged national dialogue. He viewed this as essential support for extremists. Recognizing Tripoli sent a message that Islamists can use bombs and beheadings to gain recognition after failing at the ballot box.
Abdul Hamid Dbeibah currently holds the title of Prime Minister in Tripoli. Rubin noted that locals mock him as a new version of “Baghdad Bob.” This refers to the former Iraqi Information Minister known for propaganda and conspiracy theories.
The Libyan Armed Forces now secure more than 70% of the country. This includes oil fields and export ports. Benghazi has become safe and stable due to the sacrifices of Haftar’s forces. The U.S. military returned to Sirte last month for the annual Flintlock maneuvers. This highlights the importance of areas controlled by the Armed Forces for security arrangements.
Rubin claimed real power lies with Sadiq al-Ghariani, the state Mufti. He alleged that al-Ghariani protects individuals wanted for the murder of U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens. He also claimed the Mufti supports ISIS.
While Massad Boulos, President Trump’s special envoy, speaks of unity, the Mufti undermines this position. Al-Ghariani reportedly told revolutionaries late last month to reject the unification of the military institution. He called it a time for jihad.
Rubin concluded that unity must remain the goal for Libya. Achieving it requires Washington to respect strength and principle. The U.S. should work toward integrating the Armed Forces. It should stop empowering imposed politicians and the terrorists who protect them.