TRIPOLI – Libya’s international airport in capital Tripoli came under renewed attack Wednesday with the death toll reaching 30, according to security sources.
Heavy weapons were used in the attack and dozens of rocket-propelled grenades were fired into the airport, Xinhua reported citing a commander for Zintan militia which were guarding the air hub.
Intense fighting has been going on in Tripoli since early Sunday when Islamist armed groups launched attacks on Tripoli International Airport and some key road intersections.
Medical sources said the fighting so far has killed nearly 30 people and injured over 40.
A witness said the clashes damaged 90 percent of the aircraft parked at the airport and the control tower was severely damaged.
The Libyan government Wednesday opened the Mitiga military airport to manage civil flights.
Libya has witnessed a drastic escalation of violence and political instability since the toppling of Libya’s former leader Muammar Gaddafi. Libya’s central government has failed to control the former rebels and militia, many of whom now operate with impunity. — IANS
