Is Turkey projecting its power in Libya?
Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar left Berlin Conference without committing any promises in January 2020. Probably, then it was more tempting for Haftar to continue military campaign and gain control of the whole country rather than making a ceasefire agreement. However, UN-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA), with Turkey’s support, managed to recontrol Tripoli and push back Haftar forces. This changed the balances dramatically. Now, the officials of Libyan National Army (LNA) call for a ceasefire. Diplomatic efforts seek to resolve the ongoing conflict continue. Though, Libyan and Turkish officials’ statements show that the GNA wants to take the control of Sirte and al-Jufra before starting negotiations. In response, Egyptian President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi declared that Sirte and al-Jufra are Cairo’s redline. He visited Egyptian armed forces on the border of Libya to demonstrate Egypt’s position blatantly. Controlling these cities is strategically important for both sides. ...