Libyan Crisis – Explained

Libya has been torn by violence and political instability since long-time ruler Muammar Gaddafi was toppled and killed by rebels in 2011. The crisis was triggered by the Arab Spring protests, a series of anti-government protests, uprisings and armed rebellions that spread across the Middle East in late 2010.

What is the background to the crisis?

• Libya is mostly desert and oil-rich country in northern Africa. It has the largest oil reserve in Africa.
• Libya gained independence from colonial powers in 1951.
• Colonel Muammar Gadda