Terrorism in Libya - 30 April 2015

30 April 2015

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Beheadings, Car Bombings, and the Islamic States Expansion in Libya

Foreword

Terrorism and ISIS in particular is an existential threat not only to Libya but to the global

community. The murder of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians in Sirte, Libya, the burning alive of

a Jordanian pilot in Syria, and the recent attacks in France and Copenhagen are only a small

portion of the heinous crimes committed by these criminals in the name of Islam.

The document you have in your hands lists the atrocities committed on a daily basis in Libya.

If these criminals are not dealt with, they will continue to murder, kidnap, extort, and

enslave innocent people with ever greater impunity.

LIAS will distribute these updates on a regular basis so that these crimes are widely reported

and these criminals exposed for what they really are.

Dr. Aref Ali Nayed

Chairman, Libyan Institute for Advanced Studies

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Table of Contents Glossary of Actors ........................................................................................................................ 4

Organizations ........................................................................................................................... 4

Individuals ................................................................................................................................ 4

Locations .................................................................................................................................. 4

Map of Libya and Provinces ........................................................................................................ 5

Map of Libyan Population Density ............................................................................................. 6

Definition of Categorized Events ................................................................................................ 7

Violence in Libya .......................................................................................................................... 8

Libyan Body Count ...................................................................................................................... 9

Islamic State Events over Time ................................................................................................... 9

ISIS Background, Situation, Expansion, and Strategy in Libya ............................................... 10

Overview ................................................................................................................................. 10

Situation ................................................................................................................................. 10

Expansion ................................................................................................................................ 11

Strategy .................................................................................................................................... 12

Conclusions ............................................................................................................................. 13

Terrorist Events in Libya ............................................................................................................ 15

Week of 26 April 2015 ............................................................................................................. 15

Week of 19 April 2015 .............................................................................................................18

Week of 12 April 2015 ............................................................................................................ 25

Week of 5 April 2015 .............................................................................................................. 27

Week of 29 March 2015 ......................................................................................................... 32

Week of 22 March 2015 ......................................................................................................... 34

Week of 15 March 2015 .......................................................................................................... 37

Week of 8 March 2015 ............................................................................................................ 41

Week of 1 March 2015 ............................................................................................................ 44

Week of 22 February 2015 ..................................................................................................... 47

Week of 15 February 2015...................................................................................................... 49

Week of 8 February 2015 ....................................................................................................... 52

Week of 1 February 2015 ....................................................................................................... 55

Week of 25 January 2015 ....................................................................................................... 57

Week of 18 January 2015 ....................................................................................................... 59

Week of 11 January 2015 ........................................................................................................ 60

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Week of 4 January 2015 .......................................................................................................... 61

Week of 28 December 2014 ................................................................................................... 62

Week of 21 December 2014.................................................................................................... 63

Week of 14 December 2014 ................................................................................................... 64

Week of 7 December 2014 ..................................................................................................... 64

Week of 30 November 2014 .................................................................................................. 64

Week of 23 November 2014 ................................................................................................... 65

Week of 16 November 2014 ................................................................................................... 65

Week of 9 November 2014 ..................................................................................................... 66

Week of 2 November 2014 ..................................................................................................... 68

Week of 19 October 2014 ....................................................................................................... 69

Week of 5 October 2014 ......................................................................................................... 70

Week of 7 September 2014 .................................................................................................... 70

Week of 17 August 2014 ......................................................................................................... 70

Week of 20 July 2014 .............................................................................................................. 71

Week of 15 June 2014 ............................................................................................................. 71

Week of 16 March 2014 ........................................................................................................... 71

Locations of ISIS and Affiliates Activites ................................................................................. 72

Photos of ISIS and Affiliates Activities .................................................................................... 73

Endnotes .................................................................................................................................... 82

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Glossary of Actors

Organizations Libya Dignity The military operation led by General Khalifa Haftar commanding the

Libyan Army to rid Benghazi of Islamist militias, he is allied to the internationally recognized

House of Representatives in Tobruk.

Libya Dawn A coalition of militias based in Tripoli and Misrata, currently under the

command of the now defunct General National Congress.

Libya Sunrise A faction of Libya Dawn, they are the armed units operating in western

Libya, stationed in Bin Jawad. Currently, Operation Sunrise is attempting to seize the As Sidr

and Ras Lanuf oil terminals from the Libyan National Army.

Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi (AAS) aka Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries

Islamic Militia

Islamic State in Cyrenaica (Barqa) - (MSSI) Majlis Shura Shabab al-Islam Islamic

Militia in Derna, associated with ISIL, largest ISIL affiliate

Islamic State in Tripolitania Islamic Militia, associated with ISIL

Islamic State in Fezzan Islamic Militia, associated with ISIL

Individuals Khalifa Haftar Head of Operation Libya Dignity, allied to HoR, currently leading the

Libyan Army against Islamist militias in Benghazi

Wissam bin Humaid Commander of Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries (AAS)

Mohammed al-Zahawi Former Commander of Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi, killed in

January 2015

Abu Taleb al-Jazrawey Yemeni Emir of Islamic State in Derna

Locations Tripolitania (aka Tarabulus) NW province, capital is Tripoli

Cyrenaica (aka Barqa) Eastern Province, capital is Benghazi

Fezzan Southern Province, capital Sebha

Derna Eastern port city, IS headquarters and training center

Sirte Central port city, IS in Tripolitania headquarters (Ouagadougou Conference Center)

Bayda Eastern city, Home to Al-Thinnis cabinet and Constitutional Drafting Assembly

Bin Jawad Central city, frontline for the As Sidr and Ras Lanuf oil terminal battles

Sabratha City west of Tripoli, stronghold for IS in Tripolitania

Sebha Southwestern city, capital of Fezzan, likely the headquarters for IS in Fezzan

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Map of Libya and Provinces

MAP 1 - PROVINCES OF LIBYA

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Map of Libyan Population Density

MAP 2 - LIBYAN POPULATION DENSITY MAP

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Definition of Categorized Events

Armed Clashes Battles or skirmishes between two armed organizations using but not

limited to light, medium, and heavy weaponry.

Beheading The act of execution by decapitation.

Human Rights Violations Acts committed by a group or individual that deliberately

disregard moral principles or norms outlined in international laws such as the United

Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Kidnapping The forceful abduction and detention of an individual or group.

Murder The act of intentionally killing another human, this includes targeted killings and

assassinations.

Propaganda/Recruitment The production of media to deliberately spread the

principles or doctrines of an organization in the attempt to further that organizations

agenda.

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Violence in Libya

MAP 3 - VIOLENT DEATHS BY LOCATION

MAP 4 - IS EVENTS BY LOCATION

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Libyan Body Count

Islamic State Events over Time

050

100150200250300350400450500

Jan Feb Ma

r

Apr Ma

y

Jun Jul Au

g

Sep Oct No

v

De

c

Jan Feb Ma

r

2014 2015

Murder 20 1 14 7 12 14 77 98 81 79 33 11 38 11 14

Kidnapping 1 1 1

Human Rights Violation 1 7 36 10 73 30 87 13 1 1

Car Bomb 10 1 1 1 7 3 47 14

Beheading 1 1 6 2 21

Armed Clashes 99 4 91 45 355 381 322 357 214 220 123 139 90

Tota

l De

ath

s

Number of Violent Deaths by Month

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Jul Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

2014 2015

Propaganda/Recruitment 4 5 1 14 18 2

Murder 3 2

Kidnapping 1 1 1 2

Human Rights Violation 1 2 4 1

Extortion 1

Car Bomb 4 3 1 3 3

Beheading 1 2 1 1

Armed Clashes 1 1 8 5 3

Nu

mb

er

of

Ev

en

ts

Islamic State in Libya - Events over Time

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ISIS Background, Situation, Expansion, and Strategy in Libya

Overview

The launch of Operation Dawn in July 2014 by militias based in Tripoli and Mistrata,

provided the catalyst to sufficiently destabilize Libyas already fragile political and security

situation. During this time, elements of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, long present

in eastern Libya, seized the opportunity to advance their own agenda. Over the past six

months, IS in Libya has grown from a small group of jihadists in Derna, allegedly sent in

mid-September 2014 by ISIL leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, to an increasingly dangerous

force, with bases of operation within all three of historical provinces in Libya.

Situation

The beheading of 21 Egyptian

Coptic Christians in a video

released on 15 February shows

that the Islamic State in Iraq and

Syria (ISIS) has considerable

influence outside areas originally

declared in their caliphate. The

video, released by ISISs al-Hayat

Media Center, shows the

execution and beheading of 21

Egyptians by militants belonging

to ISISs Wilayat al-Tarabulus, or Tripoli Province of the caliphate. Following the

beheadings, the leader of the group declares, in clear English, that Wilayat al-Tarbabulus will

be the base for ISISs planned advance on Rome.

In later videos, ISIS members announce their desire to use Libya as a platform for future

expansion and attacks against Europe, notably Italy. An essay written by a prominent ISIS

supporter outlines ISISs plans for Libya. The author calls Libya a strategic gateway for the

Islamic State. The essay states that Libya, by the permission of God, is the key to Tunisia,

Sudan, Mali, Algeria, and Niger too. It is the anchor from which can be reached Africa and

the Islamic Maghreb. However, for this dream to become a reality we must move quickly.

PHOTO 1 IS LEADER ABU SULEIMAN AL-JAHBATHY THREATENS ROME

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Finally the author states, (Libya) has a long coastline and looks upon the southern Crusader

states, which can be reached with ease by even a rudimentary boat and note that the number

of illegal immigration trips from this coast is massive, estimated to be as high as 500 people

a day, as a low estimate. According to many [of these immigrants], it is easily possible to

pass through Maritime Security Checkpoints and arrive in cities. If this was even partially

exploited and developed strategically, pandemonium could be wrought in the southern

Europe. It is even possible that there could be a closure of shipping lines because of the

targeting of Crusader ships and tankers.

Expansion

After the 2011 revolution, portions of the eastern city of Darnah, a city known for its

sympathies for fundamentalist religious groups, had been under the control of Majlis Shura

Shabab al-Islam (MSSI). Members of MSSI appear to have been the conduit for ISIS

representatives to enter eastern Libya. Reports on social media website began showing

members of MSSI implementing hisba (accountability patrols) throughout the city, in a

manner mirroring patrols by ISIS members in Mosul and Raqqa. These patrols were the first

tendrils of ISISs presence in Libya. By mid-September 2014 photos posted to social media

sites showed several large ISIS parades throughout Darnah. On 3 October 2014, members of

MSSI held a large rally in the center of Darnah declaring baya (allegiance) to ISIS and its

leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. It was later noted by Atlantic Council research fellow

Mohamed Eljarh that a Saudi Arabian named Abu Habib Al-Jazrawi was declared emir of the

newly created Wilayat Darnah. This declaration has become the first substantial foothold for

ISIS outside of Iraq and Syria. ISIS representatives have used Darnah as a springboard to

spread its influence throughout the other provinces of Libya.

The continued political and military chaos in Libya following the ouster of Muammar

Gaddafi in 2011 has provided an ideal situation for extremist organizations such as ISIS to

expand throughout Libya. In the months following MSSIs declaration of allegiance to ISIS in

October, attacks attributed to other ISIS related groups have occurred across all regions of

Libya.

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During the week of 9 November

2014, three car bombings and four

beheadings were carried out by

groups affiliated with ISIS in the

eastern province of Barqa.

In December 2014, IS affiliates of the

Tarabulus province took credit for

car bombings outside of the

Diplomatic Security Headquarters in

Tripoli, later detonating a car bomb

outside of the Embassy of Algeria. Later

that month, ISIS in Sirte kidnapped a

group of Egyptian Coptic Christians.

On 3 January, members of ISIS in Fezzan, Libyas southern promise, attacked a Libyan Army

checkpoint in Sokhna, killing 14 soldiers and two cooks while they were sleeping.

Since then, ISIS affiliates have increased the diversity and lethality of their attacks. ISIS

members in Libya have taken credit for the attack on the Corinthia hotel in Tripoli, the

beheading of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians, and the coordinated car bombing of three

locations in Qubbah. ISIS in Libya has repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to target both

civilians and government officials.

Strategy

Aaron Zelin, Richard Barrow Fellow for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy,

recently stated that ISIS in Libya seems to be attempting to follow the same tactics it so

effectively employed in Iraq and Syria last June. Unlike its predecessor al-Qaeda, ISIS has

effectively used media sharing websites such as JustPasteIt, Manbar, and Twitter to

continually update its supporters and potential recruits that it is active in the areas under its

control. These press releases not only show the results of attacks by ISIS affiliates

throughout Libya, but also show the same organizations proselytizing (dawah) children and

the poor. Like in Iraq and Syria, the considerably well produced media publications have

been used as a powerful tool to build both community support for the group and attract

foreign recruits.

PHOTO 2 - A MAP SHOWING THE THREE PROVINCES TO BE GOVERNED BY ISIS IN

EASTERN, WESTERN, AND SOUTHERN LIBYA.

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In regards to recruitment, ISIS

has recently launched a large

campaign to funnel fighters

from other extremist groups

within Libya. Again, this

follows a similar tactic

employed by ISIS in Syria,

attracting fighters from similar

organizations such as Jahbat al-

Nusra and recruiting them to fight

for the Islamic State. The Islamic

State in Libyas largest target has been Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi. ISIS has released a series

of statements urging the seasoned fighters of Ansar al-Sharia to join ISISs ranks. This

campaign seems to have started following the announcement of the death of Ansar al-

Sharias leader, Mohammed al-Zahawi. A video released on 27 February 2015 shows an ISIS

fighter calling for supporters to travel to Libya and fight.

Other analysts note that ISIS is using Libya as a regional command center and a launching

point for further expansion. Large stockpiles of Gaddafi-era weapons can be found

throughout Libya. In addition, porous borders allow ISIS to easily smuggle fighters from

neighboring countries. On 25 February, Libyas Tripoli based government abolished entry

visas for Algerian and Moroccan nationals. Over 2,000 Moroccans and Algerians are thought

to be currently fighting with ISIS.

Finally, ISIS attacks on Libyan oil facilities may suggest their desire to control portions of

Libyas lucrative oil resources. It is estimated that ISIS in Iraq and Syria generated up to $2

million per day from illegal oil exports. A similar strategy in Libya would provide substantial

funding

Conclusions

As noted in the 5th edition of ISISs online magazine Dabiq, its largest foreign base of support

is Libya. The drastic increase in bombings, kidnappings, and beheadings throughout Libya

by organizations allied to ISIS seems to have proven these claims true. ISIS in Libya has been

able to take advantage of the nations post-revolutionary political turmoil to establish a base

of support, though to a lesser degree, using the same tactics as in Iraq and Syria. Like in Iraq

and Syria, ISIS in Libya has been able to recruit foreign fighters to join its ranks, as seen at

the Corinthia Hotel. Given heavy military setbacks in Kobane and Mosul, coupled with ISISs

PHOTO 3 - A PHOTO FROM AN ISIS PUBLICATION URGING ANSAR AL-SHARIA MEMBERS TO PLEDGE BAYA TO ABU BAKR AL-BAGHDADI. THE MEN ARE

SHOWN WEARING THE LOGO OF ANSAR AL-SHARIA IN BENGHAZI.

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heavy campaigning for immigration by ISIS officials, ISIS members have turned to Libya as

its next area of expansion. Without international cooperation with Libyas recognized

government, ISIS will continue to flourish in Northern Africa.

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Terrorist Events in Libya

Week of 26 April 2015 Benghazi On 30 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released a set of photos

promoting its Fire Department. According to Ansar al-Sharia, their services were required in

order to put out a fire started by the Libyan Army.i

PHOTO 4 - AAS DEPLOYS FIRE TRUCK IN BENGHAZI

Benghazi On 29 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released photos of a member's

wedding. The ceremony allegedly took place in the Guwarsha neighborhood of Benghazi.ii

PHOTO 5 - ANSAR AL-SHARIA WEDDING IN BENGHAZI

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Derna On 28 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos promoting

life in the city of Derna.iii

PHOTO 6 - IS PROMOTES LIFE IN DERNA

Sirte On 28 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos of their members

patrolling the streets of Sirte.iv

PHOTO 7 - IS IN SIRTE PATROLS THE STREETS

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Tripoli/Sirte On 28 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video

highlighting a VBIED attack that was carried out in February 2015. The video, recorded

outside of the Ouagadougou Conference Center in Sirte, calls for foreigners to join the

Islamic State's ranks.

PHOTO 8 - IS MILITANT URGES FOREIGNERS TO COME TO LIBYA

Benghazi On 27 April 2015, the Islamic State in Benghazi released a set of photos

showcasing the destruction of items considered to be haram, namely cigarettes.v

PHOTO 9 - IS BURNS CIGARETTES IN BENGHAZI

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Benghazi On 26 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi eulogized Al-Qaida in the

Islamic Maghrebs (AQIM) Abu Masoud Miloud Sdaqa.vi According to the eulogy, Sdaqa died

fighting against the Libyan Army in Benghazi.vii

PHOTO 10 - AAS MOURNS AQIM'S SDAQA

Week of 19 April 2015 Benghazi On 25 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

promoting their military activity against the Libyan Army in Benghazi.viii

PHOTO 11 - IS MILITANT USES RIFLE GRENADE

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Sirte On 24 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a set of photos showing

Friday prayers at the Rabat Mosque in Sirte. The Islamic State in Sirte's spiritual leader,

Hussein Al-Karamy, makes an appearance in this release.ix

PHOTO 12 - HUSSEIN AL-KARAMY SPEAKS AT FRIDAY PRAYERS

Benghazi - On 23 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

showing a recently graduated group of IS militants. According to the release, the men and

children in the photos are a new batch of recruits for the fight against the Libyan Army in

Benghazi.x

PHOTO 13 - IS MILITANTS INDOCTRINATE YOUNG BOY

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Sirte On 23 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released propaganda stating that

Operation Libya Dawn indiscriminately shelled innocent Muslims in Sirte.xi

PHOTO 14 -IS BLAMES LIBYA DAWN FOR DESTRUCTION

Tripoli On 22 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania claimed responsibility for the

IED attack on the Spanish Embassy. The embassy, located in the Ben Ashour district of

Tripoli, was targeted on the night of 20 April. No one was injured in the attack.xii

Sirte On 22 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a set of photos

showcasing the city of Sirte.xiii

PHOTO 15 - IS PROMOTES LIFE IN THE CITY OF SIRTE

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Derna On 21 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing the

distribution of informational pamphlets throughout Derna.xiv

PHOTO 16 - IS DISTRIBUTES PROPAGANDA IN DERNA

Benghazi On 20 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of its most

recent military activities in Benghazi, specifically the Sabri neighborhood. This set of photos

highlights the Islamic State's use of heavy machine guns against the Libyan Army.

PHOTO 17 - IS IN BENGHAZI ENGAGES IN SABRI DISTRICT

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Benghazi On 20 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released photos of aid

distribution throughout Benghazi.

PHOTO 18 - CHILDREN IN BENGHAZI RECEIVE FOOD FROM AAS

Derna On 20 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica engaged in clashes with the Harir

Al-Mansouri family. After roughly 12 hours of clashes, the Islamic State defeated the entire

family and hung three of their bodies in Derna as a deterrent to others.xv

PHOTO 19 - IS HANGS DERNAWI BROTHERS

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Derna On 19 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of the group

publically punishing a man accused of theft. In the set of photos, IS extremists chop of the

hands of a Dernawi citizen.xvi

PHOTO 20 - IS DISMEMBER CITIZEN OF DERNA

Cyrenaica/Fezzan On 19 April 2015, the Islamic State in Libya released a video wherein

two groups of Ethiopian Christians are executed. Titled Until There Came to Them Clear

Evidence, the video begins with a lengthy history lesson and ends with the execution of two

distinct groups of Ethiopian Christians. According to the Associated Press, the group held in

Fezzan was killed via firing squad, while the group in Cyrenaica was beheaded.xvii

In the first half of the video, a man called Shaykh Abu Malik Anas an-Nashwan is

interviewed. An-Nashwan does not appear to have a Libyan accent.

PHOTO 21 - IS EXECUTES ETHIOPIAN CHRISTIANS IN FEZZAN

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PHOTO 22 - IS EXECUTES ETHIOPIAN CHRISTIANS IN CYRENAICA

Benghazi On 19 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of its recent

military activity in Benghazi. In this set of photos, the Islamic State shows its use of GRAD

missiles against the Libyan National Army.xviii

PHOTO 23 - IS INDISCRIMINATELY SHELLS BENGHAZI

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Derna On 19 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Derna released photos of a rally held Derna.xix

PHOTO 24 - ANSAR AL-SHARIA IN DERNA HOLDS RALLY

Week of 12 April 2015 Benghazi - On 15 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released a video showcasing the

use of a wire-guided missile against the Libyan National Army. According to the uploaders of

the video, Byan Media, the operation was carried out from the University of Benghazi.xx

PHOTO 25 - AAS EMPLOYS WIRE-GUIDED MISSILE

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Unspecified On 15 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released a statement that put

bounties on several Libyan Army leaders. According to the statement, Ansar al-Sharia is

willing to pay between 25,000 and 100,000LYD for the murder of Wanis Bukhamada,

Mohammed Hijazi, Faraj Barasi, Saqir Jeroushi, and Khalifa Haftar.xxi

PHOTO 26 - AAS TARGETS MILITARY LEADERS

Benghazi On 13 April 2015, the Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries (SCBR)

released a video interview with Mohammed Drissi. In the video, Drissi denies rumors of his

death. In 2014, Drissi was released from a Jordanian prison in exchange for then-kidnapped

Ambasassador Fawaz Al-Etan.xxii

PHOTO 27 - MOHAMMED DRISSI PROMOTES SHURA COUNCIL

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Tripoli On 13 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania claimed responsibility for the

VBIED attack on the Morrocan embassy and the drive-by shooting at the South Korean

embassy.xxiii

PHOTO 28 - IS CLAIMS ATTACK ON SOUTH KOREA'S EMBASSY

Week of 5 April 2015 Sirte On 9 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos of its military

activities in and around Sirte.xxiv

PHOTO 29 - IS MILITANTS CONVENE IN SIRTE

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Unspecified On 8 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing the

destruction of CDs that contained haram material.xxv The photos were most likely taken in

Derna.

PHOTO 30 - IS BURNS CDS AND OTHER HARAM ITEMS

Unspecified On 8 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video in which a

member threatens Tunisia. In the video, the IS militant stated that once their work is done in

Libya, the Islamic State would then move to Tunisia and free their brothers and sisters from

jail.xxvi The end of the video shows heretofore unreleased footage of the VBIED attack on the

Iranian embassy.

PHOTO 31 - IS MILITANT THREATENS TUNISIA

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Derna - On 8 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos showing a

youth recruitment rally in Derna.xxvii

PHOTO 32 - IS MILITANT RECRUITS CHILD IN DERNA

Derna On 7 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia released photos showing a convoy of fuel trucks

allegedly delivering fuel to citizens in Derna. The group claims that they were able to bypass

the blockade put into place by the Libyan Army.xxviii

PHOTO 33 - ANSAR AL-SHARIA SUPPLIES FUEL TO DERNA

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Benghazi - On 6 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi posted photos of its troops

engaged in battle against the Libyan National Army. The photos highlight Ansar al-Sharia's

use of snipers, heavy artillery, and mobile anti-aircraft.xxix

PHOTO 34 - AAS MILITANT TARGETS LIBYAN ARMY

Benghazi On 6 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica posted photos showing their

most recent military operations near Airport Road in Benghazi.xxx

PHOTO 35 - IS MILITARY ACTIVITY IN BENGHAZI

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Tripoli On 5 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a video showing a VBIED

attack carried out in Benghazi. The attack was carried out by an Egyptian man named Abu

Musaab Al-Muhajir.xxxi

PHOTO 36 - EGYPTIAN CARRIES OUT VBIED ATTACK IN BENGHAZI

Misrata On 5 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania claimed reasonability for the

VBIED attack on the Sdada Checkpoint in Misrata.xxxii According to reports from social

media, a Sudanese man named Abu Dujana Al-Sudani carried out the attack with a truck

laden with four tons of explosives.xxxiii

PHOTO 37 - SUDANESE IS MILITANT IN LIBYA

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Sirte On 5 April 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos of a vegetable

market in Sirte.xxxiv

PHOTO 38 - IS VEGETABLE MARKET IN SIRTE

Week of 29 March 2015 Benghazi On 4 April 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released photos of a raid on a

Christian church. The set of photos show the collection and destruction of instruments and

books.xxxv In February 2015, the Islamic State in Derna carried out similar activities.

PHOTO 39 - ANSAR AL-SHARIA DESTROYS CHURCH'S INSTRUMENTS

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Derna On 3 April 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a statement calling Dernas

Abu Salim Martyrs Brigade an infidel and apostate.xxxvi The Abu Salim Martyrs Brigade

led by former Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG) member Salem Derby also seeks to

implement Sharia in Derna.

Unspecified On 30 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos

showing their most recent hisba activities somewhere in western Libya. The set of photos

shows IS militants collecting and burning items they believe to be associated with magic. The

photos are most likely from Sirte or Sabratha.xxxvii

PHOTO 40 - IS DESTROYS MUNKARAT (PROHIBITED ITEMS)

Unspecified On 29 March 2015, the Islamic State in Libya eulogized Ansar al-Sharias

Mohammed Buka Oraibi. The eulogy also chastised the Libya Dawn Government for

holding a funeral for Oraibi. According to the Islamic State, Oraibi did not die fighting for

democracy, but rather for the implementation of Sharia.xxxviii

PHOTO 41 - IS EULOGIZES MOHAMMED ORAIBI

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Derna On 29 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica carried out an IED attack on

Dernas Higher Careers Institute, killing three people. The attack is said to have been carried

out because the institute was not abiding by the strict gender segregation policies

implemented by the Islamic State.xxxix

Week of 22 March 2015 Benghazi On 25 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a photo showing the

dismembered remains of Bashir Mustafa Agha, a retired member of the military.xl The photo

was most likely taken in the Laithi district of Benghazi an Ansar al-Sharia and IS

stronghold.

PHOTO 42 - IS DISMEMBERS EX-MILITARY MEMBER

Unspecified On 25 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing

their most recent hisba activities somewhere in eastern Libya. The set of photos shows IS

militants collecting and burning items they believe to be associated with magic. The photos

are most likely from Derna.xli

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PHOTO 43 - IS COLLECTS AND BURNS PROHIBITED ITEMS

Sirte On 25 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out a VBIED attack on

an Operation Sunrise checkpoint near the steam power station in Sirte. The attack left five

dead.xlii

Benghazi On 24 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica claimed responsibility for

one of the two VBIED attacks carried out in Benghazi. According to the Associated Press, 12

people were killed in the attack.xliii Photos from social media show that the Islamic State used

a drone equipped with a camera to capture the aftermath of their attack a first for the

group.xliv The attack was carried out by a Tunisian man named Abu Yaqeen al-Tunisi.

Reports from social media and the Libya Herald claim that the Shura Council of Benghazi

Revolutionaries (SCBR) carried out a separate attack in the Masakel neighborhood. Twitter

accounts tied to both the SCBR and the Islamic State claim that the attacks were carried out

as revenge for the death of SCBR commander Mohammed Oraibi.

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PHOTO 44 - IS EMPLOYS DRONE FOR PROPAGANDA

Misrata On 22 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out a remote VBIED

attack in the Zarouk area of Misrata. According to reports from social media, the Islamic

State targeted the barracks of a Misratan militia.xlv

PHOTO 45 - IS VBIED ATTACK IN MISRATA

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Week of 15 March 2015 Benghazi On 19 March 2015, Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi released a set of photos

showing a graduating class from one of its training camps. According to the Long War

Journal, the photographs are captioned thus:

This is the latest class of the protectors of the Shariah and the opposers of injustice

graduating from the mujahideen training camps to join their brothers in the battlefronts in

order to complete the journey of jihad.xlvi

PHOTO 46 - ANSAR AL-SHARIA GRADUATES

Unspecified - On 18 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released video and text

that threatened Misratan politicians, Misratan militias, and the current UNSMIL dialogues

taking place in Morocco.xlvii According to Al Wasat, an Islamic State leader by the name of

Abu Mohammed Ferjani threatened to turn Misrata into a city like Mosul or Fallujah.xlviii

PHOTO 47 - THE ISLAMIC STATE THREATENS UNSMIL

38


An Nawfaliyah On 18 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out a surprise

attack on members of Battalion 166. According to reports from social media, the Islamic

State first distracted sleeping soldiers, then murdered them with suppressed weapons.xlix The

Associated Press reports that 10 members of the 166 Brigade were killed.l

Sirte On 17 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released 20 foreign medical

workers they had kidnapped one day prior in Sirte. According to Reuters, IS militants told

the medical staff that they would remain safe as long as they treated any wounded fighters.li

Derna On 16 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing their

most recent hisba activities in Derna.lii IS militants were photographed collecting and

destroying water pipes.

PHOTO 48 - IS MILITANTS DESTROY WATER PIPES IN DERNA

Sirte On 16 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video showing the

destruction of Sufi tombs in Sirte.liii According to reports from social media, the man who

appears in the first half of the video is named Hussein Al-Karamy.liv Prior to his appearances

in Sirte, Al-Karamy was photographed in Derna.lv

39


PHOTO 49 - IS MILITANTS DESTROY SUFI TOMBS

Sirte On 16 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released images armed vehicles

that were destroyed in the armed clashes against Battalion 166 in and around Sirte.lvi

PHOTO 50 - BATTALION 166 VEHICLE DESTROYED BY THE IS

Sirte On 15 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos showing its

troops patrolling the streets of Sirte.lvii

40


PHOTO 51 - IS CHECKPOINT IN SIRTE

Sirte/Harawa On 15 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania eulogized the recently

deceased Ahmed Al-Rwaisy.lviii Known also as Abu Zakaria al-Tunisi, Al-Rwaisy was killed

during clashes between the Islamic State and Battalion 166. According to the New York

Times, Al-Rwaisy was the mastermind behind the assassination of Tunisian politicians

Chokri Belaid and Mohamed Brahmi.lix Prior to joining the Islamic State, Al-Rwaisy helped

lead Ansar al-Sharia in Tunisia.

PHOTO 52 - ABU ZAKARIA AL-TUNISI MEMORIALIZED BY IS

41


Misrata On 15 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out VBIED attacks on

the barracks of Battalion 166 and an unknown target in the Qasr Ahmed neighborhood of

Misrata.lx According to reports from social media, the VBIED attack on Battalion 166s

barracks was carried out remotely.lxi

Tripoli On 15 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out a VBIED attack on

a security headquarters in the Janzour district of Tripoli. According to Reuters, five

policemen were injured and another was killed.lxii

PHOTO 53 - IS VBIED IN TRIPOLI CRITICALLY INJURES POLICEMEN

Week of 8 March 2015 Sirte/Harawa On 14 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania engaged in armed

clashes with pro-GNC Battalion 166 a contributor to Operation Sunrise. Battles took place

outside of Sirte in the western area known as Daheera and the eastern city of Harawa.

According to Reuters, 17 Islamic State fighters were killed, while others were taken back to

Misrata for questioning.lxiii

Ras Al-Hilal On 14 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica posted photos of militants

operating in the vicinity of Ras Al-Hilal, Libya.lxiv In the past, extremist militias like Ansar al-

42


Sharia used Ras Al-Hilal as a staging ground for their GRAD missile attacks against Labraq

International Airport.

PHOTO 54 - IS MILITANTS OPERATING IN RAS AL-HILAL

Derna On 12 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos titled,

"Missionary Tour in Derna." The photos show citizens of Derna carrying out every-day

activities under the protection of the Islamic State.lxv

PHOTO 55 - IS ACTIVITIES IN DERNA

43


Unspecified On 12 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video in

which a man speaking Tebu calls for more Toubou tribesmen to join.lxvi This was the first

time the Islamic State in Libya released a video in the Tebu language.

PHOTO 56 - IS MILITANT CALLS FOR MORE TOUBOU TO JOIN

Tripoli On 12 March 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania carried out a VBIED attack on

the Dahmani Police Station in the Zawiyat Dahmani neighborhood.lxvii

PHOTO 57 - IS CARRIES OUT VBIED ATTACK IN TRIPOLI

44


Benghazi On 11 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

promoting their military activities throughout Benghazi. IS militants are photographed using

81mm mortars, 120mm mortars, and a 155mm howitzer. lxviii

PHOTO 58 - IS MILITANTS USE 155MM HOWITZERS

Week of 1 March 2015 Ghani Oilfield On 6 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica carried out an attack on

the Ghani Oilfield in central Libya, killing 11 guards and kidnapping at least 10 foreigners.

Reports suggest that seven guards were beheadedlxix, while another three foreign workers

remain unaccounted for.lxx

Derna On 5 March 2015, The Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a video a member of the

Shahhat Security Directorate and a Colonel in the Al Jaweifi Brigade were executed at

pointblank.lxxi While the video does feature the Islamic States black standard and a

nasheed, it does not contain extensive post-production work like many other IS videos.

45


PHOTO 59 - IS EXECUTES TWO LIBYAN ARMY MEMBERS

Benghazi On 5 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a video showing their

recent activity in Benghazi. The video begins with an Egyptian man calling for youth around

the world to join the jihad in Libya. The video ends with Islamic State militants carrying out

drive-by shootings on civilians whom they call sahawat, or supporters of the Libyan

Army.lxxii

PHOTO 60 - IS CARRIES OUT DRIVE-BY SHOOTING IN BENGHAZI

46


Derna On 3 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos showing

residents of Derna pledging allegiance to the Islamic State. The outdoor event appears to

have gathered hundreds of attendants.lxxiii

PHOTO 61 - IS EVENT IN DERNA GATHERS HUNDREDS OF ATTENDANTS

Mabruk Oilfield On 2 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica carried out

coordinated attacks on the Mabruk, Bahi, and Dahra oilfields in central Libya.lxxiv Islamic

State militants shelled the oilfields, engaged in armed clashes, and subsequently captured at

least two of the three oilfields.lxxv

The Islamic State also carried out an attack on the Mabruk Oilfield on in early February

2015, which left at least 12 dead.

Benghazi On 2 March 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a video showing a

VBIED attack carried out in Benghazi.lxxvi The attack was carried out by a foreign fighter

most likely a man from Tunisia.

47


PHOTO 62 - TUNISIAN FOREIGN FIGHTER CARRIES OUT

SUICIDE BOMBING IN BENGHAZI

Week of 22 February 2015 Benghazi On 28 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a video calling for

foreign fighters to come to Libya.lxxvii The video was recorded in the Leithi neighborhood of

Benghazi an Ansar al-Sharia stronghold. The promotional video concludes with a drive-by

assassination. According to reports from social media, the man assassinated is Saiqa Special

Forces member Ibrahim Mitri.lxxviii

PHOTO 63 - IS MILITANTS CALL FOR FOREIGN FIGHTERS IN BENGHAZI

48


Unspecified On 27 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video

named, A Message to the Brothers in Tawheed. In the video, a non-Libyan man calls for

foreign fighters to come to Libya and fight against General Khalifa Haftar.lxxix

PHOTO 64 - IS MILITANT CALLS FOR FOREIGN FIGHTERS IN TRIPOLITANIA

Unspecified On 24 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a

promotional video of the two foreigners involved in the attack on the Corinthia Hotel in

Tripoli.lxxx According to SITE Intel Group, the video is titled, Convoys of the Martyrdom-

Seekers and is the first of more to come.lxxxi

PHOTO 65 - IS FOREIGN FIGHTER DELIVERS SPEECH PRIOR TO CORINTHIA ATTACK

49


Benghazi On 23 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

displaying their recent military action throughout Benghazi.lxxxii

PHOTO 66 - A MEMBER OF THE ISLAMIC STATE ENGAGES IN BATTLE

Tripoli On 22 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania claimed responsibility for

the double-IED attack on the Iranian Embassy in the Ben Ashour neighborhood of

Tripoli.lxxxiii

Week of 15 February 2015 Unspecified On 21 February 2015, the Islamic State in Libya released a video message

that threatened politicians and businessmen from Misrata.

PHOTO 67 - IS THREATENS MISRATAN POLITICIANS

50


Al-Qubbah On 20 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica carried out at least two

simultaneous VBIED attacks in the eastern city of Al-Qubbah. In their official statement, the

Islamc State called the VBIED attacks revenge for the recent Egyptian airstrikes carried out

in the eastern city of Derna.lxxxiv The attacks targeted the local Security Directorate building,

the house of Speaker of the House Agila Saleh Issa, and a nearby fuel station. At least 45

people were killed as a result. According to The National, the attacks were carried out Bitar

Al Libi and Abu Abdullah Al Jazrawi.lxxxv

PHOTO 68 - BITAR AL LIBI AND ABU ABDULLAH AL JAZRAWI PRIOR TO THE VBIED ATTACKS

Unspecified On 19 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

showing the distribution of medical aide somewhere in eastern Libya.lxxxvi

Derna On 18 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica carried out Hisba

(accountability) activities by burning instruments in Derna.lxxxvii

51


PHOTO 69 - IS CARRYING OUT BURNING INSTRUMENTS IN DERNA

Sirte On 18 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a set of photos

showing off a parade they held in the city of Sirte.lxxxviii A video later appeared on YouTube in

which at least 25 IS trucks can be seen.lxxxix

Unspecified On 17 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of their

recent activities in eastern Libya. This most recent release shows boxes of cigarettes being

destroyed by men wearing black masks and driving what appear to be newly acquired police

vehicles.xc

Sirte On 15 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a video confirming

the beheadings of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians.xci The video was released by the Islamic

States Al-Hayat media division.xcii According to the Washington Post:

In the video, Islamic State fighters marched the Egyptians onto a stretch of coastline

before forcing them to kneel and severing their heads. The brutal murders were

portrayed as retaliation against what a masked fighter described as the hostile

Egyptian church.xciii

Later reporting indicates that a large portion of ISIS members in Sirte are from Misrata.xciv

52


PHOTO 70 - IS IN TRIPOLITANIA BEHEADS EGYPTIANS

Week of 8 February 2015 Sarir Oilfield On 14 February 2015, El Sarir oilfield in southern Libya was attacked by

unnamed perpetrators. The Sarir oilfield provides crude oil to the Hariga port in Tobruk,

Libya.xcv Although unconfirmed, a Twitter account linked to IS in Libya posted pictures of a

vehicle approaching an oilfield in Libya.xcvi

Benghazi On 13 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

that appear to confirm their involvement in the VBIED attack on 6 February 2015.xcvii

PHOTO 71 - COLLAGE GLORIFYING AN IS SUICIDE BOMBER IN BENGHAZI

53


Derna On 13 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of their most

recent floggings carried out in Derna. In this instance, at least seven youths were publically

flogged for consuming alcohol.xcviii

PHOTO 72 - YOUTH PUBLICALLY FLOGGED IN DERNA

Sirte On 13 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a set of photos in

which they claim to have received the repentance of 42 employees of the Ministry of Interior

in Sirte.xcix

PHOTO 73 - IS FORCES MAN TO OFFICIALLY REPENT

54


Sirte On 13 February 2015, in addition to capturing a number of radio stations, the

Islamic State in Tripolitania seized the Ibn Sina Hospital in Sirte. According to the Libya

Herald, A military convoy carrying IS flags reportedly surrounded the hospital this morning

and ordered Misrata-based Central Libya Shield which has been providing security there to

leave.c

Sirte On 13 February 2015, gunmen claiming to be members of the Islamic State jihadist

group have seized control of a state-run radio station in Libya's coastal city of Sirte, residents

said on Friday.ci

Jihadist websites also posted pictures showing armed men sitting in front of microphones in

a broadcasting studio and brandishing Kalashnikov assault rifles.cii

PHOTO 74 - IS TAKES OVER RADIO STATION IN SIRTE

Unspecified On 12 February 2015, ISIS released the newest edition of its Dabiq

magazine. The following is a passage taken from the magazine in which the recently

kidnapped Egyptians in Libya are referenced:

This month, the soldiers of the Khilfah in Wilyat Tarbulus captured 21 Coptic crusaders, almost

five years after the blessed operation against the Baghdad church executed in revenge for Kamilia

Shehata, Wafa Constantine, and other sisters who were tortured and murdered by the Coptic Church

55


of Egypt. The operation was planned by Hudhayfah al-Battw (rahimahullh), wl of Wilyat

Baghdad at the time, alongside the senior military commander, Ab Ibrhm azZayd (rahimahullh),

both of whom played a crucial role through their passion and zealousness in preserving the morale

of the Islamic State mujhidn after the martyrdom of Ab Umar al-Baghdd and Ab Hamzah al-

Muhjir (rahimahumallh).ciii

Benghazi On 11 February 2015, the hospital of Benghazi received, 40 human heads with

no bodies after a training camp in the Buatni Neighborhood was recaptured by the Libyan

National Army. The training camp was previously occupied by the Shura Council of Benghazi

Revolutionaries.civ

Unspecified On 10 February 2015, the Islamic State released a statement calling for

Operation Libya Dawn fighters to repent to God.cv

An Nawfaliyah On 9 February 2015, the Islamic State was photographed arriving in An

Nawfaliyah, a city located southwest of Bin Jawad.cvi Initials reports suggest that there were

clashes between Libya Dawn forces and ISIS forces.cvii

Week of 1 February 2015 Benghazi On 7 February 2015, a Palestinian man was reported to have died fighting for

the Islamic State in Libya.cviii

According to SkyNews Arabia, the man entered Libya via a tunnel somewhere along the

Egyptian border.cix

Benghazi On 6 February 2015, two people were killed and 20 were injured after a car

bomb exploded in the Al Leithi Neighborhood of Benghazi.cx cxi

Mabruk Oilfield On 4 February 2015, reports emerged stating that extremists attacked

the Mabruk Oilfield, approximately 170km south of Sirte.cxii The Mabruk Oilfield is operated

by Total Oil and produces roughly 70,000 bbl/d.cxiii

56


Initial reports suggested that three foreigners were kidnapped, one of whom was French.

France denied that any French citizens were kidnapped, while the Philippines confirmed that

three of their oversea foreign workers went missing.cxiv Twelve people will killed overall.

Ain Marah - On 4 February 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos

showings its recent troop activity in Ain Marah.

The photos were released just days after clashes occurred between Islamic State forces and

Libyan National Army Forces.cxv

Unspecified - On 4 February 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released a set of photos

showing their recent promotional activities somewhere in their self-declared state.

Many of the photos in this release show attendants enjoying themselves at IS-led events.cxvi

Unspecified - On 4 February 2015, a Twitter account associated with the Islamic State in

Libya tweeted:

[W]e the #Mujahideen of #IslamicState in #Libya ask #Muslims in #Tunisia,

#Algeria #Morroco what are u waiting for Join #Ummah #Muhammad!cxvii

Tripoli On 3 February 2015, the Information Office of the Islamic State in Tripolitania

released photos claiming an attack on a checkpoint in Tripolis Souq al-Jumaa.cxviii

According to the Libya Herald, the bomb detonated near a building used by the Tripoli

Revolutionaries Brigade.cxix Although unconfirmed, the Herald and Al Wasat suggest that

the attack was revenge for the Brigades involvement during the attack on the Corinthia

Hotel.cxx

57


PHOTO 75 - PHOTOS OF AN IS VBIED ATTACK ON THE TRIPOLI SECURITY DIRECTORATE

Sirte According to reports from social media, the Islamic State in Tripolitania turned

Qadhafi's Ouagadougou Conference Center in Sirte into a command center.cxxi

Week of 25 January 2015 Benghazi - On 29 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of updated

photos of its recent troop activity throughout Benghazi.cxxii

Benghazi - On 28 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of updated

photos of its recent activity throughout Benghazi.

This set of photos does not show any fighters, but instead displays the effects of the fighting

in the city. Many of the photographed buildings are riddled with bullet holes and are overall

dilapidated.cxxiii

Sirte - On 28 January 2015, the Information Office of the Islamic State in Tripolitania

released photos showing new members in Sirte swearing allegiance to the Islamic State.

According to the Islamic State, the men shown in the photographs are recent Christian

converts.cxxiv

58


PHOTO 76 - CONVERTS OF THE ISLAMIC STATE

Tripoli On 27 January at approximately 0953 (UDT +2) a VBIED detonated outside of

Tripolis Corinthia Hotel. No casualties were reported as a result of the explosion.

Immediately following the blast five gunmen entered the hotel and engaged in a shootout

with local security, leaving at least three guards dead. Witnesses claim that three other hotel

staff members were injured. The Associated Press reported that the gunmen had taken three

to five hostages on the hotels twentieth floor.cxxv

According to the BBCs Rana Jawad, security officials of the Corinthia Hotel have been aware

of possible threats for several days.cxxvi A tweet posted by an account linked to the Islamic

State in Tripolitania claims that the attack was revenge for the death of Abu Anas al-Libi.cxxvii

The user claims that the attack was directed at the Corinthia Hotel because of its popularity

among foreigners. However, hotel staff have stated that the hotel was approximately 90%

empty. A security guard told the Associated Press that Omar al-Hassi usually stays at the

hotel with security guards, but that they were not present at the time of the bombing and

subsequent attack.

Twitter users began posting images that allegedly show some of the gunmen who

participated in the attack on the hotel.cxxviii

The attack on the Corinthia Hotel left at least nine dead.

59


Benghazi - On 26 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released a set of photos of

its recent troop activity in the Buhidima Neighborhood of Benghazi.

IS troops can be seen climbing houses, viewing videos, and firing upon their opponents.cxxix

Week of 18 January 2015 Benghazi - On 20 January 2015, IS in Cyrenaica released photos of the distribution of aid in

what they allege to be Benghazi.cxxx

PHOTO 77 - IS PASSES OUT SWEETS TO CHILDREN

Unspecified - On 20 January 2015, the Islamic State in Libya released an open letter to

Sheikh Abdullah and Sheikh Mamoon.cxxxi

Unspecified - On 20 January 2015, IS in Cyrenaica released a statement showing their

most recent Hisba activities in eastern Libya.cxxxii

Benghazi On 18 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing

their most recent military activity in Benghazi.cxxxiii

Unspecified - On 18 January 2015, The Islamic State in Libya released a statement dividing

Libya into three distinct regions. The statement also calls for foreign members of the Islamic

State to travel to Libya.cxxxiv

60


PHOTO 78 - IS DIVISION OF LIBYA TARABULUS, FEZZAN, AND BARQA

Week of 11 January 2015 Tripoli On 17 January a VBIED exploded Saturday in front of the Embassy of Algeria in

Tripoli, injuring two security personnel.

According to a Libyan security source, the two injured workers, whose condition is not

alarming, were quickly transported to the hospital of the capital.cxxxv

Sabratha - On 17 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing

members distributing clothing and financial aid.cxxxvi

Sirte - On 12 January 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania claimed responsibility for the

kidnapping of 21 Christians.cxxxvii According to The Telegraph:

On January 3rd, Christian activists in Egypt had reported thirteen of their countrymen

kidnapped in the Libyan town of Sirte, and that seven others had been kidnapped a week

earlier.cxxxviii

61


PHOTO 79 - PHOTOS OF THE KIDNAPPED EGYPTIANS

Sabratha - On 11 January 2015, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos allegedly

showing their Hisba activities somewhere in western Libya. The photos were most likely

taken in Sabratha.cxxxix

Week of 4 January 2015 Unspecified - On 8 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos allegedly

showing the execution of two Tunisian journalists.cxl

PHOTO 80 - TUNISIANS ALLEGEDLY EXECUTED BY IS IN LIBYA

Benghazi On 7 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos of recent

troop activity throughout Benghazi.cxli

Unspecified On 4 January 2015, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica released photos showing

the execution of a man they labeled as an apostate.cxlii

62


PHOTO 81 - "APOSTATE" EXECUTED BY THE IS

Week of 28 December 2014 Benghazi On 3 January 2014, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica posted photos of their recent

destruction to civilian homes throughout Benghazi.

This set of photos contains a photograph showing a civilian who died as a result of the

bulldozing.cxliii

Sokhna On 3 January 2014, the Islamic State in Fezzan claimed responsibilitycxliv for an

attack on a Sokhna checkpoint in southern Libya.cxlv

According to the Libya Herald, nineteen people were killed in the attack.cxlvi

PHOTO 82 - IS IN FEZZAN ATTACKS SOKHNA

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Tobruk On 30 December at approximately 1315 (UDT +2) an explosion occurred outside

the headquarters of the House of Representatives.cxlvii At the time the House of

Representatives met in the Dar Al Salam hotel. According to the spokesman for the General

Chief of Staff, Ahmed Al-Mismari, the vehicle exploded in the hotel car park and was not a

suicide attack as initially suggested.cxlviii The most current reports state that a total of 19

people were injured as a result of the explosion.cxlix

Week of 21 December 2014 Tripoli According to multiple sources, a VBIED detonated outside of the Diplomatic

Security Headquarters in Tripoli on the morning of 27 December. clThe Diplomatic Security

Headquarters is located in the Sidi al-Masry district of Tripoli.cli

The jihadist Islamic State (IS) organisation said it carried out the bombing, according to the

US-based monitoring group SITE Intelligence.

"The provincial division of the Islamic State (IS) for Tripoli, Libya, claimed a car bombing at

the diplomatic security building in the capital, and provided a photo of the blast," SITE

said.clii

Ajdabiya On 26 December 2014, a perfume company was damaged by a VBIED early

Friday morning in Ajdabiya. There were no reported casualties.cliii

Benghazi On 25 December 2015, an Al Wasat article reported that IS in Cyrenaica

published a video in which an "apostate" is burned alive. The video supposedly takes place in

the Al Leithi Neighborhood of Benghazi. The group claiming responsibility is led by

Mohammed Nus Idrissi. Idrissi was recently released by Jordanian authorities in exchange

for captured Jordanian diplomats.cliv

64


PHOTO 83 - A LIBYAN ARMY MEMBER BURNED BY ISIS

Week of 14 December 2014 Tripoli - At approximately 1200 (UDT +2) on 16 December 2014 social media users began

circulating a photo alleging to show a car bomb that exploded near the Security Directorate

Headquarters in Tripoli. According to accounts from social media no casualties were

reported.clv On 17 December 2014, the original source claimed that ISIS claimed

responsibility for the car bomb via a Twitter page.clvi

Ajdabiya - On 15 December 2014, a military police building near the eastern gate entrance

to Ajdabiya was targeted and subsequently damaged by an explosive device. Witnesses said

that an explosive device was placed under one of the buildings windows and caused damage

to the building while injuring no one.clvii

Week of 7 December 2014 Benghazi On 8 December 2014, the Islamic State in Cyrenaica posed photos allegedly

showing their military progress throughout Benghazi.clviii

Week of 30 November 2014 Ajdabiya - At approximately 1125 (UDT +2) on 1 December 2014, a car bomb exploded

outside the Ajdabiya Security Directorate.clix The security directorate is located near the

Ajdabiya city center on al-Modoryia Road.clx Initial reports suggest that three to seven people

were wounded.clxi Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle that exploded was a white

Hyundai.clxii

65


Week of 23 November 2014 Unspecified - The Islamic State (IS) released the fifth issue of its English magazine

Dabiq, focusing on the coordinated pledges from jihadi groups in Algeria, Libya, Sinai,

Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, and featuring a message attributed to British captive John Cantile

discussing the recent attacks in Australia, Canada, and the U.S., as well as musing what he

would do as American President.

In the newest edition, ISIS claims Libya has its strongest presence outside of Iraq and Syria.

It continues to state that an abundance of arms and the condition of mayhem after Gaddafi

was ideal for jihad.clxiii

Derna On 23 November 2014, The Islamic Army, a militia in Derna, released photos of its

recent publicity campaign in Derna. Photos show groups of children meeting with Islamic

Army members. In addition, Islamic Army members passed out pamphlets to young men in

Dernas vegetable market. The photos are similar to those released by ISIS members

conducting charity campaigns in Iraq and Syria.

The Islamic Army is one of the strongest militias present in Derna. Last week they were

among many foreign groups from across the Middle East to pledge allegiance to ISIS and

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The ISIS magazine Dabiq claims its strongest foreign following is in

Derna.clxiv

Week of 16 November 2014 Yemen On 22 November 2014, a statement was released by spokesmen for Al-Qaida in

the Arabian Peninsula has acknowledged Libyan extremists in Derna pledge to ISIS and its

leader Abu Bakr al Baghdadi.

The statement also called for all Libyan Mujahideen such as Ansar al-Sharia in Benghazi to

pledge their support for ISIS and Abu Bakr al Baghdadi.clxv

Benghazi On 16 November 2014, the Islamic State in Libya has released photos of nine

suicide bombers who died in Benghazi. According to the photos, five were Tunisian, two were

Egyptian, and two were Libyans.clxvi

66


The Islamic State in Cyrenaica also released a statement taking credit for the series of VBIED

attacks on 12 November 2014clxvii, men pledging allegiance to the ISclxviii, and photos of a

convoy in Derna.clxix

PHOTO 84 - IS CONVOY NEAR DERNA

Tripoli - A group in Tripoli claimed responsibility for the bombings of the UAE and

Egyptian embassies.clxx The group also posted photos declaring their allegiance to the Islamic

State.clxxi clxxii

Week of 9 November 2014 Tripoli - At approximately 06:45 (UDT +2) on 13 November 2014, two car bombs exploded

near the Egyptian and UAE embassies in the Al-Seyaheyya and Zawiyat Al-Dahmani

neighborhoods of Tripoli.clxxiii No casualties have been reported, though photosclxxiv show

significant damage to vehicles and buildings near the embassies. Both embassies have been

vacant since the inception of Operation Libya Dawn.clxxv

Marj - On 13 November 2014, two Libyan National Army (LNA) soldiers and one other were

slightly injured as a result of a bomb attack on a checkpoint in Marj.clxxvi

Mohamed Hejazi, a spokesman for Operation Dignity, told the Libya Herald that a gelatina

bomb had been thrown at the checkpoint at the Saha Al-Karima roundabout, close to the

67


towns main Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq mosque.clxxvii The car from which the bomb was thrown then

drove away at speed.clxxviii

Ajdabiya On 12 November 2014, a car bomb was discovered in Ajdabiya and subsequently

dismantled by the Libyan National Army.clxxix

Al Bayda - At approximately 11:57 (UDT +2) on 12 November 2014, a vehicle carrying

explosives detonated at the military checkpoint outside Labraq International Airport.clxxx

Eyewitnesses report that after stopping to be searched by security officials, the driver of the

vehicle detonated explosives. Current reports state that four members of the military have

been confirmed killed.clxxxi

Benghazi - At approximately 12:07 (UDT

+2) on 12 November 2014, Twitter users

reported the detonation of a car bomb

outside of the Al Shalal cafe, located in the Al

Majuri neighborhood in central Benghazi.

Eye witnesses report that a vehicle loaded

with explosives was parked on the street

outside the caf. Reports indicate that there

were no casualties as a result of the bombing,

however the caf and surrounding shops were destroyed. No indication if the caf was the

intended target, neighborhoods in central Benghazi have been mostly abandoned due to

continued fighting.clxxxii

At approximately 17:01 (UDT +2) another car bomb was discovered in the Ras Obeida

neighborhood of Benghazi.clxxxiii

Tobruk - At approximately 11:00 (UDT +2) on 12 November 2014, a large car bomb

exploded at a crowded intersection, near the Intelligence Headquarters, in Tobruk. Eye

witnesses report the driver of the vehicle refused to stop at a military checkpoint, continuing

on to a crowded intersection.clxxxiv

At approximately, 11:40 (UDT +2) vehicles damaged by the initial blast exploded at the site

of the car bombing. Initial reports suggested a second vehicle was involved in the attack,

however later reports proved that there was not a second vehicle involved.clxxxv

PHOTO 85 - VBIED IN BENGHAZI

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Final reports confirm two people have been killed and at least an additional 20 had been

taken for medical treatment.clxxxvi

Derna On 11 November 2014, three young activists were found beheaded in Derna,

eastern Libya. The three, who had relayed information about the city through social media,

had been kidnapped earlier in the month. The activists have been named as Siraj Ghatish,

Mohamed Battu and Mohamed al-Mesmari.clxxxvii

Two of the three activists in Derna had been kidnapped three months earlier.clxxxviii

Benghazi On 11 November 2014, a Libyan Army soldier stationed at Benina Airport was

captured, forced to appear on videoclxxxix, and then beheaded.cxc According to Al Wasat, the

group responsible calls itself the Father of Injustice Battalion.cxci

PHOTO 86 - SOLDIER BEHEADED IN BENGHAZI

Shahat On 9 November 2014, unidentified persons set off three car bombs in the city of

Shahat in eastern Libya near the building where the Libyan Prime Minister Abdullah al-

Thinni held talks with special UN envoy to Libya Bernardino Leon. cxcii Eye witnesses claimed

the perpetrators parked vehicle packed with explosives and detonated them remotely.

Though there was significant material damage, no deaths or injuries were reported. The

intended target was the Security Directorate Building.cxciii

Days later two suspects from Derna were arrested in connection to the car bombings.cxciv

Week of 2 November 2014 Sirte On 4 November 2014, the Islamic State in Tripolitania released photos of lectures

given by Turki al-Binali.cxcv

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The original release also contains links to Turki al-Binalis lectures on YouTube.cxcvi

PHOTO 87 - TURKI AL-BIN'ALI DELIVERS LECTURE

Week of 19 October 2014 Derna After pledging allegiance to ISIS, Darnah's Islamic Youth Shura Council (MSSI)cxcvii

launched an 'Islamic Court'.cxcviii The group announced that its leader is a Yemeni named Abu

Taleb al-Jazrawey.cxcix According to Al Wasat, Al-Jazrawey moved to Derna in mid-

September with a number of senior ISIS members.cc

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PHOTO 88 - MSSI LAUNCHES ISLAMIC COURT IN DERNA

Week of 5 October 2014 Benghazi On 10 October 2014, a car bomb exploded near the Tibesti Hotel, killing one

and injuring two others.cci

Week of 7 September 2014 Benghazi On 12 September 2014, Tareq Ramadan Misrati was killed by an IED in the Al

Majori Neighborhood of Benghazi. Tareq Misrati was the brother of former intelligence

officer Colonel Juma Misrati who was assassinated in June 2013.ccii

Week of 17 August 2014 Derna Released on 20 August 2014, a video shows an execution-style killing by an armed

group at a football stadium in eastern Libya. cciiiAn amateur video published on social media

sites shows the purported execution of an Egyptian man apparently organized by an armed

group called the Shura Council of Islamic Youth in the eastern city of Derna.cciv

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PHOTO 89 - PUBLIC EXECUTION IN DERNA

Week of 20 July 2014 Benghazi On 21 July 2014, a militia in Benghazi beheaded a Filipino construction worker,

allegedly for being a non-Muslim.

The beheading marks the first Filipino death in Libya since the 2011 revolution, according to

the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. It is also the first reported beheading in the

country since 2011. The construction worker was kidnapped July 15 at a checkpoint in the

Gwarsha district of Benghazi.

A department spokesperson told media that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of

$160,000. ccv

Week of 15 June 2014 Benghazi On 19 June 2014, a bodyguard for former National Transitional chairman

Mustafa Abdul-Jalil was killed by an IED.ccvi

Week of 16 March 2014 Benghazi On 17 March 2014, a car bomb targeting a military academy in Benghazi killed

eight soldiers and wounded another 12.ccvii

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Locations of ISIS and Affiliates Activites

MAP 5 - LOCATIONS OF MAJOR IS ACTIVITIES FROM WEST TO EAST: SABRATHA, TRIPOLI, SUKNAH, SIRTE, AN NAWFALIYAH, BENGHAZI, DERNA.

73


Photos of ISIS and Affiliates Activities

PHOTO 90 - THE BEHEADING OF A LIBYAN ARMY SOLDIER BY IS

PHOTO 91 - THE CORPSE OF A LIBYAN ARMY SOLDIER BURNED BY IS

74


PHOTO 92 - PHOTOS RELEASED BY IS AFTER A VBIED EXPLOSION OUTSIDE THE TRIPOLI SECURITY DIRECTORATE

PHOTO 93 - THE DESTRUCTION OF TOMBS BY IS

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PHOTO 94 - THE DESTRUCTION OF A STATUE IN DERNA BY IS

PHOTO 95 - COMMANDERS OF IS AFFILIATES IN BENGHAZI. FROM RIGHT TO LEFT - MOHAMMED AL-ZAHAWI (ANSAR AL-SHARIA), WISSAM BIN

HUMAID (LIBYA SHIELD ONE), AND JALAL MAKHZOUM (RAFALLAH AL-SAHATI BRIGADE)

76


PHOTO 96 - IS AFFILIATES FIGHTING THE LIBYAN NATIONAL ARMY IN AIN MARAH

PHOTO 97 - IS FIGHTERS IN BENGHAZI

77


PHOTO 98 - IS FIGHTERS IN AIN MARAH

PHOTO 99 - AN IS FIGHTER PLANTING A FLAG OVER IS CONTROLLED TERRITORY IN BENGHAZI

78


PHOTO 100 - A BANNER IN BENGHAZI DECLARING IS'S OBJECTIVE TO ESTABLISH SHARIA LAW ACROSS LIBYA

PHOTO 101 - A CONVOY OF NEW IS HISBA (MORALITY POLICE) VEHICLES IN BENGHAZI

79


PHOTO 102 - A CONVOY OF IS FIGHTERS AND VEHICLES IN DERNA

PHOTO 103 - A RALLY AMONG FIGHTERS AND RESIDENTS IN DERNA

80


PHOTO 104 - AN AFRICAN CHRISTIAN CONVERTING TO ISLAM AND PLEDGING ALLEGIANCE TO IS IN SIRTE

PHOTO 105 - A RALLY OF YOUNG MEN PLEDGING ALLEGIANCE TO IS IN SIRTE

81


PHOTO 106 - AN IS FIGHTER GIVING DAWA (CHARITY) TO A CHILD IN DERNA

PHOTO 107 - A CHILD IN DERNA SHOWING SUPPORT FOR IS

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Endnotes

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i Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' : ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 30 2015. http://justpaste.it/kudw. ii Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' ( : ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 30 2015. http://justpaste.it/ktnx. iii Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 30 2015. http://justpaste.it/photodarna. iv Twitter,. 2015. 'James Wheeler On Twitter'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://twitter.com/wheelertweets/status/593191442140536832. v Twitter,. 2015. 'James Wheeler On Twitter'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://twitter.com/wheelertweets/status/592876970511364096. vi Trackingterrorism.org,. 2015. 'Ansar Al Sharia In Libya Mourns The Death Of AQIM's Abu Masoud Miloud Sdaqa | Chatter Control | TRAC'. Accessed April 30 2015. http://www.trackingterrorism.org/chatter/ansar-al-sharia-libya-mourns-death-aqims-abu-masoud-miloud-sdaqa. vii Twitter,. 2015. 'Good Morning Libya On Twitter'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://twitter.com/Morning_LY/status/592414336783667201. viii Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://dump.to/msho. ix Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://dump.to/gam3. x Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 23 2015. https://dump.to/wosool. xi Twitter,. 2015. '8 On Twitter'. Accessed April 30 2015. https://twitter.com/19tara___/status/591194942401343488. xii News.siteintelgroup.com,. 2015. 'IS Al-Bayan News Bulletin For April 22, 2015, Reports Attack Targeting Spanish Embassy In Tripoli | Jihadist News'. Accessed April 23 2015. https://news.siteintelgroup.com/Jihadist-News/is-al-bayan-news-bulletin-for-april-22-2015-reports-attack-targeting-spanish-embassy-in-tripoli.html. xiii Twitter,. 2015. 'ADEM On Twitter'. Accessed April 23 2015. https://twitter.com/oAD0EM08/status/590838561630457856. xiv Twitter,. 2015. 'ADEM On Twitter'. Accessed April 23 2015. https://twitter.com/oAD0EM08/status/590662351277404160. xv "IS crucifies Family in Derna." Libya Herald. April 21, 2015. Accessed April 22, 2015. http://www.libyaherald.com/2015/04/21/is-crucifies-family-in-derna/. xvi Twitter,. 2015. 'Libya Al Hurra On Twitter'. Accessed April 22 2015. https://twitter.com/LibyaAlHurraTV/status/589912603008303104. xvii Yahoo News,. 2015. 'IS Video Purports To Show Killing Of Ethiopians In Libya'. Accessed April 19 2015. http://news.yahoo.com/un-90-000-people-fled-advance-iraqs-anbar-093621366.html. xviii Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 19 2015. https://dump.to/barqa6.

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xix Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' " : : ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 19 2015. https://justpaste.it/ans7d. xx Facebook.com,. 2015. 'Facebook | - 21 '. Accessed April 15 2015. https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=662003573906115&set=vb.658826377557168&type=2&theater. xxi Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' ) ( ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 30 2015. http://justpaste.it/w4an. xxii The Big Story,. 2015. 'Jordan's Ambassador, Freed In Libya, Returns Home'. Accessed April 15 2015. http://bigstory.ap.org/article/jordanian-ambassador-released-captors-libya. xxiii Twitter,. 2015. 'Good Morning Libya On Twitter'. Accessed April 15 2015. https://twitter.com/Morning_LY/status/587419806271430656. xxiv Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 15 2015. https://dump.to/rebatsirt. xxv Twitter,. 2015. 'A. Ibrahim On Twitter'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://twitter.com/jihadi24/status/585732584253952000 xxvi Facebook.com,. 2015. 'Facebook | '. Accessed April 8 2015. https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1615019678730352. xxvii Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://dump.to/moltaqa3. xxviii Twitter,. 2015. 'Good Morning Libya On Twitter'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://twitter.com/Morning_LY/status/585464559160397825 xxix Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 15 2015. https://justpaste.it/kcts. xxx ... - Dump.To - Dump and share text & images easily and anonymously! Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://dump.to/malahem2. xxxi on Twitter Twitter,. 2015. ' On Twitter'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://twitter.com/k8h5a2t6a2b/status/584676842814091264 xxxii Twitter,. 2015. '6 On Twitter'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://twitter.com/66kkq/status/584959234942599168 xxxiii Pbs.twimg.com,. 2015. Accessed April 8 2015. https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CB0Cg9HUEAA15Px.jpg xxxiv ... - Dump.To - Dump and share text & images easily and anonymously! Dump.to,. 2015. ' ... - Dump.To - Dump And Share Text & Images Easily And Anonymously!'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://dump.to/sooqsirt. xxxvxxxv { ... - justpaste.it Justpaste.it,. 2015. ' { ... - Justpaste.It'. Accessed April 8 2015. https://justpaste.it/kbz0. xxxvi [ " ... - Dump.To - Dump and share text & im

Terrorism in Libya - 30 April 2015

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