Libyan desert city returns to the fore with expected LNA action in it

Ahmed Adel

Zallaf, the strategic city in southern Libya that bore the brunt of most of the terrorism that happened in the country, have once more returned to the fore.

This is especially so after the Libyan National Army (LNA) declared it a “military zone”.

In the same context, the Joint Security Room in the city of Sebha announced July 11 some parts of southern Libya to be the scene of future military operations.

The room asked civilians not to approach these areas.

Head of the Moral Support Department in the LNA, Maj. Gen. Khaled al-Mahjoub, declared Zallaf a military operations area.

Turning the city into a military operations area is apparently aimed at cutting off supplies to criminal groups and terrorist cells in the region.

Al-Mahjoub added that the Libyan National Army sent military reinforcements to support the Sebha Security Directorate to eradicate terrorist groups.

Importance for tourism

The sandy Zallaf area in Libya has been a magnet for tourists for two consecutive decades. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions south of the city of Brak.

The city is located about 40 kilometers south of Brak. Its sand cuts off the road between Brak and the city of Sebha in southern Libya.

European tourists also travel great distances to reach Zallaf to enjoy its scenic views, golden sands, and the warm sun.

The city has a special charm, which encourages tourists to visit it regularly. The sand has many lovers.

However, the influx of terrorists into Libya turned Zallaf into a den of bandits. Nevertheless, the LNA is hastened to liberate and clear the area in January 2019.

After the liberation, Zallaf regained its charm for desert lovers. Tourists set up their tents in the city to enjoy camping in its middle.