Libyan Marshal Haftar's intelligence chief killed in Benghazi car bombing

Fawzi al-Mansouri, the military intelligence chief for Libya's eastern-based forces led by Khalifa Haftar, was assassinated in a car bombing on August 10, 2026, in Benghazi. The explosive device was reportedly attached to his vehicle and detonated as he was leaving a local mosque at night. This incident occurred in the al-Sayyida Aisha residential neighborhood, which is considered a stronghold of the Libyan National Army (LNA) led by Haftar. The LNA has characterized the incident as a "terrorist attack," although no group has claimed responsibility for the bombing at this time. The assassination of al-Mansouri has raised significant concerns regarding security in Benghazi and the implications for the Haftar family's security credentials. Analysts have indicated that this event could hinder ongoing efforts to reunify Libya's rival governments, which are currently under a US-brokered plan. The incident highlights the ongoing instability in the region and the challenges faced by military and political leaders in Libya as they navigate the complexities of governance and security in a divided country. Reports from multiple news outlets, including Euronews, France24, and Middle East Eye, have confirmed the details surrounding the assassination. The LNA's statement regarding the incident underscores the precarious security situation in Benghazi and the broader implications for the political landscape in Libya. As the country continues to grapple with divisions, the assassination of a key military figure like al-Mansouri may further complicate efforts to achieve stability and reunification.