A responsible military source in the Libyan National Army, led by Marshal Khalifa Haftar, has issued a warning against any attempts to reactivate an armed cell in the south of the country known as the 'Southern Liberation Room'. The source emphasized that any movement of this kind will be confronted with force, noting that the room, led by Mohammed Wardaqo, is considered to have 'illusory strength and is being pursued.'
Local media and bloggers circulated a video showing activist Bashir Al-Sheikh, leader of what is known as the 'Fazzan Anger Movement', discussing his joining the Southern Liberation Room as the political office director. Al-Sheikh explained that the group intends to launch an operation dubbed 'Quicksand', targeting what they described as 'fuel and goods smuggling and checkpoints that collect bribes', indicating that foreign currencies are used to purchase goods and smuggle them into African countries.
Details of the Event
In his statements, the military source, who requested anonymity, clarified that Bashir Al-Sheikh is currently in Tunisia and lacks any field presence or actual support on the ground. He confirmed that Al-Sheikh's activities are limited to social media posts, pointing out that the National Army has eliminated most of the weaponry associated with the room, while some elements fled to the desert and are being pursued.
The source added that the Southern Operations Room has become illusory, and any attempt to return will be crushed, asserting that the National Army will be vigilant against it. This warning comes at a time when the National Army continues to deploy patrols in the southern region to enhance security and stability, secure borders, and combat smuggling operations, according to Marshal Haftar's directives.
Background & Context
It is noteworthy that the southern border between Libya and Niger witnessed unexpected tension at the end of January 2026, following an attack by an armed group known as the Southern Liberation Room on three border points controlled by the National Army. The attack led to security disturbances along the approximately 340-kilometer border strip, before the Army announced the restoration of control over the targeted sites.
The southern region of Libya is known for being fragile and having weak security infrastructure, characterized by limited border oversight and the presence of armed groups, making it a fertile environment for smuggling and local conflicts. This situation complicates the enforcement of stability and effective control over its territories, at a time when Libya suffers from chronic political and military division between two governments.
Impact & Consequences
The warning issued by the National Army reflects growing concerns over the escalation of armed activities in the south and underscores the importance of enhancing security in this vital region. It also reflects ongoing tensions between various parties in Libya, complicating efforts to achieve stability.
Under these circumstances, strengthening cooperation between military forces and local authorities is essential to address security challenges. Any escalation in armed activities could negatively impact peace efforts and national reconciliation.
Regional Significance
Libya is a crossroads for many regional issues, as its stability directly affects security in North Africa. Any escalation in conflict or armed activities may lead to broader repercussions affecting neighboring countries, necessitating greater international attention.
In conclusion, the situation in southern Libya remains under observation, as current security challenges require a swift and effective response from all concerned parties to ensure the country's stability.