UNSMIL rocket attack Libya foiled as Libyan authorities intercept missiles near UN headquarters in Tripoli with no casualties reported in attempted strike

UNSMIL rocket attack Libya was narrowly averted Friday when Libyan security forces foiled an attempted missile strike on the United Nations Support Mission in Libya’s (UNSMIL) Tripoli headquarters.

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According to the Libyan interior ministry, the rocket—fired from an anti-tank missile—missed the compound and landed in a nearby residential area in Janzour, on the outskirts of the capital. No casualties or structural damage were reported.

Authorities said they acted swiftly, seizing a pickup truck carrying two additional missiles and a launch platform. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and officials have not disclosed any suspects.

The rocket strike coincided with UNSMIL chief Hanna Tetteh’s briefing to the UN Security Council in New York, raising further concerns about the security situation in the fractured North African state.

UNSMIL confirmed the incident but said, “The mission’s premises were not impacted,” and praised the Libyan government for its quick response and commitment to protecting international personnel.

Libya’s Tripoli-based government strongly condemned the assault, calling it a “failed attempt” to destabilize the country and harm its relationship with the international community.

It reiterated its pledge to dismantle rogue militias and build a “professional and unified security force.”

Libya remains split between the internationally recognized administration in Tripoli led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah and a rival authority in the east.

The country continues to struggle with internal instability since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled Moamer Kadhafi.

Deadly clashes between rival armed groups have rocked Tripoli in recent months.

In May, fighting left at least eight dead as the government attempted to dismantle long-entrenched militias, which officials said had “become stronger than the state.”

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Friday’s attack underscores the volatile security landscape and the ongoing challenges facing efforts to stabilize Libya and protect diplomatic missions.