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Libya's GNA takes back more of southern Tripoli from Hifter

The Government of National Accord says it captured a string of towns from military strongman Khalifa Hifter this week.

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A damaged military aircraft is seen after fighters loyal to Libya's internationally recognized government took control of al-Watiya air base, southwest of Tripoli, Libya, May 18, 2020. — REUTERS/Hazem Ahmed

Khalifa Hifter’s self-styled Libyan National Army lost more ground today to the country’s internationally recognized government, which reclaimed parts of southern Tripoli from the military strongman. 

The Government of National Accord (GNA) said it had retaken several towns in recent days, including the town of Esabia on Thursday, according to Turkish state-run Anadolu Agency. 

Spokesman Mustafa al-Mujie told the outlet that the Government of National Accord was now preparing an assault on the city of Mizdah, some 111 miles from the capital.  

Hifter’s eastern-based army, although withdrawing from parts of southern Tripoli, announced it destroyed nearly 20 military vehicles and four Turkish-made government drones.

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