Libya: Fighting near Tripoli, 21 dead

(Patria) – 21 people lost their lives and 27 were injured in fighting near Tripoli, the Libyan government reported.

Rebel forces of General Khalifa Haftar are advancing from the east with the aim of capturing Tripoli, agencies reported.

The UN requested a two-hour ceasefire for the evacuation of civilians, but it is uncertain whether the request was honored.

Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj accused Haftar of attempting a coup and announced a harsh crackdown on rebel forces.

International organizations operating in Libya have begun evacuating staff due to the poor security situation.

Libya has been characterized by political instability since 2011, when Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown and killed.