Turkish military personnel in western Libya have been arriving in Misrata city to vote in the Turkish elections at the Turkish consulate. In Turkey and abroad, more than five million new voters are expected to participate in the upcoming Turkish elections on May 14, marking their first time casting a ballot.
The Turkish military has been involved in Libya’s civil war, supporting the Tripoli-based government and the armed groups affiliated with it. They have received military support from Turkey, which included the provision of weapons, drones, and military advisors. Additionally, Turkey has established military and naval bases in western Libya, including the Al-Watiya Airbase located south of Tripoli and in Misrata.
The Turkish military personnel have been arriving in Misrata on Turkish buses, under the protection of the Libyan 154th Protection and Guard Battalion. The Turkish consulate in Misrata has been closed to the public since May 1, in preparation for the elections.
The presence of Turkish military personnel in Libya has been a contentious issue, with some accusing Turkey of violating the UN arms embargo on Libya. The Turkish government has defended its actions, stating that it is supporting the internationally recognized government in Libya. However, the Libyan House of Representatives, which is based in the eastern city of Benghazi, has accused Turkey of interfering in Libya’s internal affairs and supporting terrorist groups. The situation has further complicated the already complex political landscape in Libya, with two rival governments vying for power.
Source: The Libya Update
