Shelling of Mitiga Airport hits passenger plane leading to closure of airport

On 31 August, four projectiles struck Mitiga airport in Tripoli, damaging the runway and hitting a passenger jet operated by Libyan Airlines that was carrying pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia. This resulted in at least four civilian injuries, including two plane crew members. On 1 September, the airport closed due to the insecurity and four Libyan airlines switched their operations to Misrata airport instead, which is reportedly struggled to keep up with the influx of travellers. The source of the attack remains unclear, with various reports attributing the incident to either LNA forces or members of the al-Bugra (the cow) militia which is based in Tajoura.Lack of clarity over who conducted this attack could increase tensions and divisions within the LNA and anti-LNA armed coalitions given the negative international reaction and subsequent closure of the airport. If Mitiga airport remains closed, this will significantly limit international travel to and from Tripoli and will likely to contribute to growing anger among local residents. It could also further isolate the city internationally, in both diplomatic and commercial spheres. However, the UN is unlikely to take any meaningful action to sanction those involved therefore attacks against Mitiga and other key infrastructure in Tripoli are likely to continue in the short term.