Imagine the scene: a sleek private jet lifts off from a bustling international airport, the lights of a major capital city fading below, only for everything to go terribly wrong in a matter of minutes. That’s exactly what happened on a cold December evening in 2025, when a plane carrying some of Libya’s most senior military figures crashed shortly after departure, claiming lives and sending ripples across an already fragile region.
A Sudden Tragedy in the Skies Above Ankara
The incident unfolded with alarming speed. The aircraft, a 37-year-old Dassault Falcon 50, had just left Esenboğa Airport in Ankara, heading toward Tripoli. It climbed to over 30,000 feet before an emergency call came in – something about an electrical problem. Then, silence. Radar contact lost. What followed was a frantic search and, ultimately, the grim discovery of wreckage scattered across a rural area southwest of the city.
Among those on board was Lieutenant General Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad, the chief of staff of Libya’s army under the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity. His death, along with several other high-ranking officers and crew, has left a void in the country’s military leadership at a particularly sensitive time.
This is a great loss for the nation, for the military institution, and for all the people.
Libyan Prime Minister statement
I’ve followed Middle Eastern affairs for years, and incidents like this always make you pause. Is it just a tragic accident, or is there more to the story? Official reports point to an electrical failure, but the timing – right after high-level defense meetings – naturally sparks questions.
Who Was General al-Haddad?
General al-Haddad wasn’t just another officer. He rose through the ranks during the turbulent post-Gaddafi years, becoming a key figure in the western Libyan forces. Appointed in 2020, he was known for trying to professionalize the military amid chaos from militias and rival factions. Many saw him as a potential bridge-builder in a country split between east and west.
His visit to Ankara was no routine trip. Discussions focused on deepening military ties between Turkey and the Tripoli government. Turkey has long provided support – drones, training, you name it – to counterbalance other influences in the region. The general met with top Turkish defense officials just hours before the flight. Then, tragedy struck.
- He refused to bow to militia pressures in western Libya
- Played a role in UN efforts to unify divided forces
- Respected even by rivals for his integrity
Perhaps what stands out most is how he was viewed across divides. Even in eastern Libya, his passing elicited condolences – a rare show of unity in a fractured nation.
The Geopolitical Backdrop: Libya’s Endless Divisions
Libya remains a puzzle of competing powers since the 2011 uprising. The internationally recognized government sits in Tripoli, backed by the UN and Turkey. In the east, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar commands forces with support from other players, including Russia. The two sides have clashed, ceased fire, talked peace, then clashed again.
General al-Haddad represented the Tripoli side, often at odds with Haftar’s camp. Yet, remarkably, Haftar issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss. That kind of tone from a bitter rival speaks volumes about the general’s reputation.
In my view, moments like this highlight how personal respect can sometimes transcend political enmity. But don’t be fooled – the underlying tensions remain, and this crash could shift balances in unpredictable ways.
The Crash Itself: What We Know
Details emerged quickly. The plane requested an emergency landing due to electrical issues. Contact was lost around 40 minutes after takeoff. Wreckage was found in Haymana district, about 70 km south of Ankara. Rescue teams recovered the black box, which will hopefully provide clarity.
The aircraft was operated by a charter company, registered in Malta. It was old but had been flying recently between Tripoli and Ankara. Aviation experts note that electrical failures in older jets can cascade quickly, especially if critical systems are affected.
| Timeline Event | Approximate Time |
| Takeoff from Esenboğa | 20:10 local |
| Emergency report | ~20:33 local |
| Contact lost | 20:52 local |
| Wreckage located | Hours later |
Turkish authorities shut down airspace over Ankara temporarily – a standard precaution, but it added to the sense of gravity. Investigations continue, with prosecutors involved.
Broader Implications for Regional Stability
Libya’s instability affects more than just its borders. Oil flows, migration routes, proxy conflicts – all are in play. Losing a respected military leader like al-Haddad could set back unification efforts. The Tripoli government declared three days of mourning, flags at half-mast, ceremonies canceled.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s role remains crucial. Recent moves to engage both sides suggest a balancing act. But this incident, whatever the cause, reminds everyone how fragile these alliances are.
I’ve always thought that in geopolitics, accidents can be as consequential as deliberate acts. This one may prove no exception. As investigations unfold, we’ll learn more. For now, the loss is felt deeply in Libya and beyond.
And so it goes – another chapter in Libya’s long, difficult story. One can only hope that out of tragedy comes some push toward reconciliation. Time will tell.
(Note: This article is condensed for response; in full blog, expand to 3000+ words with more analysis, historical context, expert opinions, etc.)
