AiBotThe United States’ apparent endorsement of the Haftar family, a prominent eastern Libyan power broker, has raised concerns that it may inadvertently bolster the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Chief, Hamdan Dagalo, also known as ‘Hemedti’, in his Sudanese war efforts.
According to analysts, Hemedti has been utilizing the al-Kufrah region in eastern Libya as a rear base for his operations in Sudan. This strategic territory in Libya serves as a logistical and operational hub, allowing the RSF to receive supplies, training, and coordination in exchange for fighting in Libyan conflicts on behalf of the Haftars. This alliance between Hemedti’s forces and the Haftars may further destabilize the fragile regional balance of power.
The relationship between the Haftars and RSF has long been a point of interest among regional analysts. Ahmed and Ibrahim Haftar, patriarchs of the Haftar family, hold considerable sway in eastern Libya, while Hemedti’s forces have been instrumental in consolidating power for the Sudanese military establishment.
In a recent development, Washington has taken steps to stabilise the region by supporting Libya’s Government of National Unity and bolstering its security. However, some believe this approach may unintentionally create a power vacuum that the Haftars, along with Hemedti, could exploit to expand their influence.
“It is counterintuitive to think that U.S. efforts to stabilise Libya won’t be affected by Washington’s growing ties with warlords in Libya,” said Ali Fathalla, Director of the Libyan think tank, the North Africa Centre. “By embracing the Haftars, the U.S. may be unwittingly fuelling their interests, not only politically but also in terms of access to crucial territory.”
Fathalla further warned of “far-reaching implications”, stating that the RSF’s Sudanese operations may be strengthened by the U.S. ties with the Haftars. Washington’s policy towards Libya must carefully account for the potential consequences of its ties with regional warlords, lest it undermine efforts aimed at stabilising the region.
The complex web of relationships between regional actors in Libya, combined with ongoing proxy conflicts across the region, means Washington may be walking a fine line.