Clashes in western Libya disrupt transport, deepen security concerns

Fierce armed clashes broke out early Tuesday, August 4, 2026, between armed groups in Libya’s western cities of Zawiya and Surman, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire and raising fresh concerns over security in the region. The Libyan News Agency (LANA) reported that ambulance services and local authorities warned residents against using the coastal road […]

France takes economic steps as prelude to full recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara

France is gradually tilting towards an outright recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara territory where it said Paris is ready to back Morocco’s investments. The position to back Morocco’s economic projects in the Sahara was first expressed by French foreign minister Stephane Séjourné in February and reiterated this month by French minister in charge […]

Algerian Djamel Okacha Takes Over Control of AQIM in Northern Mali

Algerian Islamist extremist Djamel Okacha has become the new commander of operations of Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) in Northern Mali, replacing Abu Zeid who was killed in a French-led military campaign in the impoverished African country. The confirmed death of Abu Zeid, who raised millions of dollars from kidnapping of Western hostages, […]