Commentary
Frederic Wehrey, Charles H. Johnson
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Source: Getty
In The Media
Understanding the Complex Web of Conflict in Libya
The real story of Libya is that there is no one faction that can really compel or coerce the others.
Published on Jul 28, 2014
Source: PBS Newshour
Speaking to Jeffrey Brown on PBS NewsHour, Carnegie’s Frederic Wehrey discussed the deteriorating situation in Libya, where violence has escalated between rival factions. The very complex web of dynamics and alliances has finally arrived to Tripoli, Wehrey said, where fighting has intensified over control of the airport.
Under Qaddafi, Libya didn’t have state institutions, an army, or police. It’s only gotten worst since the revolution, Wehrey said. “The militias are getting funding from Libya’s oil wealth and they’ve really mushroomed. They’ve become their own entities,” he argued. “The real story of Libya is that there’s no one faction that can really compel or coerce the others.”
In Washington, there’s a sense that there’s no partner on the other side, Wehrey explained. They want to help the Libyans but the Libyans first have to help themselves. “I do think the Libyans themselves need to step up to the plate before the outside community can help,” he argued.
About the Author
Frederic Wehrey
Senior Fellow, Middle East Program
Frederic Wehrey is a senior fellow in the Middle East Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where his research focuses on governance, conflict, and security in Libya, North Africa, and the Persian Gulf.
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