Libyans celebrate Eid amid fear of renewed violence

As Eid al-Adha begins, many in Tripoli remain uneasy after deadly clashes last month between rival militias, AFP reports. While daily life appears normal, residents express fear that violence could soon return. The May fighting—sparked by the killing of a militia leader—left at least eight dead and highlighted ongoing instability in Libya's capital.

The 444 Brigade, aligned with the UN-recognized government, now controls areas formerly held by the powerful SSA faction, where mass graves and human rights abuses have since been uncovered. UN officials reported discovering dozens of bodies, including 10 charred corpses, and raised alarm over atrocities in SSA-run detention centers.

With elections still indefinitely delayed and protests mounting against Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, many Libyans see no clear political solution. “Calm on the surface hides deeper tensions,” said one resident. As another put it, “We’ll see what happens after Eid.”