LibyaPolitics

LNA fighter aircraft strike terrorist hideouts in Derna

Military aircraft belonging to the Libyan National Army (LNA) targeted on Tuesday terrorist hideouts in the old city area of Derna, 218News reported.

The airstrikes coincided with ongoing clashes between the army and remnants of terrorist groups in Derna.

The sound of heavy artillery fire was heard inside the old city, which is witnessing constant clashes and is seen as the last terrorist stronghold in the city.

Since July 2017, Derna has been under military siege by the LNA. The fighting has intensified since mid-May 2018, when the LNA increased its presence and sought to expel the militants from the city.

During the period of May and June 2018, the city witnessed intense aerial bombardment and usage of heavy weapons, including artillery. The intensified fighting reached the city centre.

Despite LNA declaring victory on 28 June 2018, the fighting continued inside the old city of Derna, as remaining of militants continue to control the old city centre.

Meanwhile, Derna is returning to normal life, approximately 1,300 families have returned to Derna.

In November 2014, Derna was captured by extremist militants. Egypt has in the past launched air strikes against what it said were terrorist training camps operating in the city.

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