Libya: Qatar pledges security, economic support to GNA

Qatar Sunday vowed to provide security and economic support to UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), becoming therefore the second country after Turkey to pledge open support to the weak government.

The Gulf country made the pledge Sunday during GNA leader Faiez Serraj’s visit to Doha. He met with Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Prime Minister Abdullah Al Thani.

Serraj’s office said the Libyan leader travelled to the Gulf country “to exchange views between the two countries and coordinate positions regarding all issues of mutual concern.”

GNA has been facing since April a military offensive by retired General Khalifa Haftar’s forces (LNA).

Haftar, backed by Qatar’s rivals, UAE and Egypt, has accused the GNA of housing terror and criminal groups. Over 100,000 have been displaced and hundreds have been killed in the offensive.

The LNA last week announced it will launch the final assault for Tripoli’s takeover.
A “decisive battle” is starting, Haftar said in a televised speech, adding that his forces will push into the heart of Tripoli.

Qatar, a traditional ally since the GNA was established in Dec. 2015, has become the second foreign country to officially pledge security support. Turkey also this month indicated that it will send troops to Libya to prop up the internationally recognized administration if Serraj makes the request.