Libya holds funeral for military intelligence chief killed in bombing

Senior Libyan National Army officials gathered in Benghazi for the funeral of military intelligence chief Fawzi al-Mansouri, who was killed in a car bombing outside a mosque.

Senior LNA officials attend funeral

The funeral brought together senior LNA figures and armed personnel, including Khaled and Saddam Haftar, sons of LNA commander Khalifa Haftar. The LNA described al-Mansouri as a “heroic martyr”.

Senior figure in Libya’s conflict

Al-Mansouri was closely linked to the Haftar family and played a prominent role in the LNA’s campaigns against jihadist groups, including Islamic State militants, between 2014 and 2017.

He also participated in Haftar’s Russia-backed offensive to capture Tripoli in 2019, which was eventually repelled by forces based in the capital.

Bombing raises security concerns

Authorities have yet to identify those responsible for the assassination. Security analysts say the sophisticated attack raises questions about the LNA’s ability to protect senior officials and maintain stability in eastern Libya.

Libya remains divided

The country has remained politically divided since Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown in 2011. The UN-recognised government in Tripoli and a rival administration backed by Haftar in Benghazi continue to compete for power.

Assassination threatens unity efforts

The killing comes as international efforts seek to bring Libya’s rival authorities together and pave the way for nationwide elections. Analysts warn that the assassination could further complicate those efforts and create new instability.

LNA vows to continue

The LNA has pledged to continue its fight against terrorism and work towards Libya’s stability and reunification. Al-Mansouri’s killing, however, highlights the security challenges facing the eastern authorities.