“This incident, however, serves to demonstrate the fragile security situation in our country.”

Thanks to Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

“Masked gunmen attack Libyan oil corporation HQ in Tripoli,” by Patrick Wintour, Guardian, September 10, 2018:

Masked gunmen have attacked the headquarters of the Libyan National Oil Corporation in Tripoli, setting off explosions and exchanging gunfire with security guards and forces from Libya’s UN-backed government.

At least two NOC staff members were killed and 10 others injured. Two gunmen were also killed before security forces regained control of the building.

“Far more important than the considerable damage to our building is the human cost of such an attack. Our people are our most precious asset,” said the NOC chair, Mustafa Sanallah.

“This incident, however, serves to demonstrate the fragile security situation in our country and the need for additional measures to ensure NOC is able to withstand those that seek to halt Libya’s recovery,” added Sanallah, who is one of the country’s most influential non-political figures. He is credited with trying to root out corruption and increase Libyan oil production, which is likely to be the driving force behind any economic recovery.


The assault was thought to be the work of Islamic State, and not one of the feuding militias operating in Tripoli. The UN negotiated a ceasefire between militia groups three days ago after clashes left more than 60 people dead. It may have been that Isis seized on the recent lawlessness in the capital to mount Monday’s attack….