WEB DESK: Libya has declared three days of mourning following the death of army chief Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad and four senior military officials in a plane crash near Ankara, Turkey.
The private jet crashed Tuesday shortly after takeoff, killing all on board, including al-Haddad, four Libyan officers, and three crew members. Turkish authorities have attributed the incident to technical failure, dismissing sabotage as a cause.
Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah confirmed the tragedy on Facebook, calling it a significant loss for Libya. He praised the victims for their dedication and national service, highlighting al-Haddad’s crucial role in unifying Libya during a divided post-Gaddafi era.
Among the other casualties were General Al-Fitouri Gharibil, Brigadier General Mahmoud Al-Qatawi, adviser Muhammad Al-Asawi Diab, and military photographer Muhammad Omar Ahmed Mahjoub. The delegation had been attending discussions in Ankara to strengthen defense ties between the two nations.
