The Libyan army’s chief of staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad, was killed in a fatal plane crash near Ankara, Turkey, shortly after departing from Esenboga Airport. The incident also resulted in the deaths of four other senior Libyan military officials and three crew members, representing a significant loss for Libya’s military leadership.
Turkish authorities have indicated that the crash was likely caused by a technical failure, ruling out sabotage. The black box from the Dassault Falcon 50 has been recovered and is currently under investigation. Witnesses reported an explosion in the night sky over Haymana, which is believed to be related to the crash. The aircraft had requested an emergency landing prior to losing contact with control towers.
Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah issued a statement mourning the loss, highlighting the importance of al-Haddad’s leadership in ongoing national efforts to unify Libya, which remains divided since 2014. The briefing indicates the delegation was returning from Ankara following high-level defense discussions aimed at strengthening military cooperation.
The crash took place a day after Turkey extended its military presence in Libya. Libyan officials have acknowledged that the aircraft was a leased Maltese plane, although details about its ownership are limited. The incident has prompted calls for a thorough investigation, emphasizing the need for stability, reconciliation, and further diplomatic engagement between Turkey, Libya, and international partners.
