ASSESSMENTS

Possible Return of Militant Islamists in Libya

Jun 7, 2012 | 16:17 GMT

Possible Return of Militant Islamists in Libya
Libyan Islamic Fighting Group members in Tripoli

MAHMUD TURKIA/AFP/Getty Images

Summary

Two attacks in almost as many weeks targeting foreign offices in Benghazi indicate that militant Islamist groups may be re-emerging in Libya's east. If Libyan jihadist groups are resuming operations, it would severely complicate the ruling National Transitional Council's (NTC's) efforts to stabilize and rebuild the country. However, with oil interests and NATO's reputation at stake, Western countries are unlikely to stand by if the militant groups become a serious threat.

Benghazi has long cultivated Islamist militancy, and the conditions are right for such militancy to rise again....

Keep Reading

Register to read three free articles

Proceed to sign up

Register Now

Already have an account?

Sign In