Pacts between Libya, Turkey raise tensions with Egypt
Egypt's criticism of Libya's internationally recognized government is mounting in light of the latter's maritime and security agreements with Turkey.
CAIRO — Recently inked agreements between Turkey and Libya have some of their neighbors fuming, especially as Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA) on Dec. 19 accepted Turkey's offer of military assistance in the battle against its rival.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had reiterated Egypt’s support Dec. 16 for the GNA's rival, the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by eastern military commander Gen. Khalifa Hifter. Sisi said Libyan events affect Egypt’s national security and “some countries are interfering to delay a political solution in the country.” This statement came after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered GNA leader Fayez al-Sarraj military aid, including ground troops, under an agreement signed last month. Sarraj officially accepted Dec. 19.
The GNA Presidential Council responded to Sisi’s statements by saying the GNA “understands the right of the Egyptian government to national security, but it does not accept any threats to Libyan sovereignty." Sarraj added, "We hope Egypt will play a pivotal role in gaining everybody’s trust in the framework of supporting civil peace and stability in Libya.”
Hifter’s LNA has been leading an offensive against the GNA in Tripoli since April. On Dec. 12, Hifter announced the “final battle” for the capital.
