Libyan Commander Khalifa Haftar: A Profile

Early Life and Military Career

Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Omar Haftar was born on November 7, 1943, in Ajdabiya, Libya. He joined the Libyan army in the 1960s and fought in the Six-Day War (1967) and Yom Kippur War (1973) against Israel.

Alliance with Gaddafi

Haftar became a close ally of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi after the 1969 coup that brought Gaddafi to power. He held senior positions in the Libyan military, including Chief of Staff of the Libyan Armed Forces from 1985 to 1990.

Opposition to Gaddafi

Haftar fell out with Gaddafi in the early 1990s and fled to the United States. In 2011, he returned to Libya to join the opposition to Gaddafi during the Libyan Civil War.

Operation Dignity

In 2014, Haftar launched Operation Dignity, a military campaign aimed at combating Islamist militias in eastern Libya. The operation has been successful in securing most of eastern Libya, including the major cities of Benghazi and Derna.

Political Ambitions

Haftar has been accused of having political ambitions, including a desire to become President of Libya. He has denied these allegations but remains a powerful figure in Libyan politics.

Russian Support

Haftar's forces have received support from Russia, which has provided military equipment and mercenaries. Russia's support has helped Haftar to consolidate his control over eastern Libya.

Controversy and Human Rights Concerns

Haftar's actions have been criticized by human rights groups, which have accused him of committing war crimes and human rights violations. The International Criminal Court has launched an investigation into these allegations.

International Response

The international community has been divided in its response to Haftar. Some countries, such as Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, have supported him, while others, such as the United States and the European Union, have called for a ceasefire and a political solution to the Libyan crisis.

Conclusion

Khalifa Haftar is a complex and controversial figure in Libyan politics. He has played a major role in the Libyan Civil War and remains a powerful force in the country. It remains to be seen what role he will play in the future of Libya.