Ankara / Tripoli, December 24 - On December 23, 2025, a tragic plane crash near Ankara, Turkey, claimed the life of Libya's army chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad, along with four aides, sending shockwaves through the region. The Dassault Falcon 50 business jet, en route from Ankara to Tripoli, lost contact with air traffic control approximately 42 minutes after takeoff at 20:52 local time. The aircraft had issued an emergency landing request due to a reported electrical failure before crashing in a field southwest of the Turkish capital. Rescue teams swiftly located the wreckage, which was found in flames, marking a significant loss for Libya's military leadership and raising questions about the stability of the North African nation.
Lt. Gen. al-Haddad, a seasoned military figure, played a pivotal role in Libya's armed forces, particularly within the Government of National Unity (GNU), the internationally recognized administration based in Tripoli. His career included notable participation in the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi, where he supported rebel forces. As chief of general staff, al-Haddad was instrumental in overseeing efforts to unify Libya's fragmented military amid ongoing tensions between eastern and western factions. The delegation, which also included senior officers and advisors, had been in Ankara for high-level discussions with Turkish officials, focusing on defense cooperation and military support, further highlighting the strategic importance of the visit.
The crash occurred aboard a 37-year-old Falcon 50, a trijet aircraft known for its long-range capabilities, though its age has sparked concerns about maintenance and safety standards. Turkish authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause, with early indications pointing to a possible mechanical issue rather than foul play. The incident took place a day after Turkey’s parliament extended the mandate for its military deployment in Libya, underscoring the deepening military ties between the two nations. Libya’s Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah declared three days of national mourning, describing the loss as a "grave blow" to the country’s military institution and its people.
This aviation tragedy has intensified scrutiny on the safety of aging aircraft and the fragile security landscape in Libya. As investigations continue, the international community watches closely, aware that the loss of such a key military leader could impact ongoing unification efforts and regional stability. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the challenges facing Libya’s journey toward peace, with the outcome of the probe likely to influence future military and diplomatic relations in the region.
