Full Breakdown
Financial Enablers of Khalifa Haftar's Tripoli Offensive Exposed
4/8/2026, 5:54:15 AM
Investigation Uncovers Financial Ties to Military Campaign
A recent investigation by The Sentry has revealed that a network of companies linked to Libyan military commander Khalifa Haftar facilitated approximately $300 million in loans for his failed 2019–2020 offensive against Tripoli. The report identifies businessman Ahmed Gadalla as a crucial enabler, who helped secure these funds from a minor bank in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The offensive, aimed at capturing the Libyan capital from the United Nations-recognized Government of National Accord, resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with hundreds killed and thousands forced from their homes.
The investigation highlights that the total cost of the military campaign was around $700 million, with funds likely used to finance operations, including payments to the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Despite the offensive's failure and the subsequent financial burden placed on the Libyan public, Gadalla has reportedly faced no accountability and has expanded his influence within eastern Libya's financial system, allegedly controlling key banks such as the Bank of Commerce and Development.
Broader Implications of Financial Malfeasance
The report indicates that Gadalla's activities extend beyond financing military operations. He is also implicated in the circulation of counterfeit currency, which has contributed to the devaluation of Libya's local dinar. Furthermore, Gadalla is linked to efforts to procure military equipment for Sudan, violating a United Nations arms embargo. In July, a container ship operated by Gadalla was intercepted while transporting military supplies disguised as civilian goods, raising concerns about ongoing arms trafficking in the region.
The Sentry warns that the lack of accountability for individuals like Gadalla is exacerbated by the fragmentation of Libyan state institutions and a diplomatic void. This environment allows financial enablers to sustain armed groups and perpetuate corruption, undermining Libya's economic stability.
Calls for International Action
The investigation urges Western governments, particularly the United States and European Union nations, to impose targeted sanctions on Gadalla and his network. The report emphasizes that without decisive international action, Libya risks further erosion of its economic foundations and continued instability.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the failure to hold financial enablers accountable reflects a broader issue of impunity within Libya's fragmented political landscape. The lack of consequences for Gadalla and similar figures raises questions about the effectiveness of international oversight and intervention in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The impunity of such second-tier operators is sustained by the fragmentation of Libyan state institutions and the diplomatic void,” — The Sentry
- “Without concerted international action to hold enablers like Gadalla accountable, Libya faces the continued erosion of its economic foundations,” — The Sentry
This investigation sheds light on the complex interplay between finance and military operations in Libya, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and international intervention to stabilize the nation.
