Is Egypt at War with Islamic Militants in Libya?
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iStock/Thinkstock(CAIRO) — There were reports Wednesday of Egyptian military jets bombing Islamic militant targets in the Libyan city of Benghazi, although government officials in Cairo publicly denied such military action was taking place.
However, if it turns out to be true, it would signal Egypt’s determination to root out terrorists in the region who might eventually threaten its own security.
Contrary to government denials, at least two Egyptian officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the air campaign could last three-to-six months.
Much of Libya has been essentially lawless since the execution of former dictator Moammar Gadhafi three years ago. The central government in Tripoli is considered ineffectual as hundreds of armed militias have popped up all over the country.
However, former Libyan General Khalifa Haftar has vowed to rid the country of Islamist radicals, which includes a new bid to retake Benghazi from the militants, apparently with Egyptian help.
Haftar launched an operation in Benghazi last summer but was unable to send the Islamists packing.
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