Saif al-Islam Gadhafi Killed in Attack at His Home
Saif al-Islam Gadhafi, the son of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, was shot dead at his home in Zintan, northwestern Libya, according to his political team. He was 53 years old.
His advisor said four masked gunmen broke into the house, switched off security cameras, and shot him. He called the attack cowardly and planned. Libyan authorities have not yet confirmed the incident. The International Criminal Court has also not made a statement.
From Political Heir to Controversial Figure
Saif al-Islam was once seen as his father’s successor. Moammar Gadhafi ruled Libya for more than 40 years before rebels overthrew and killed him in 2011.
During the Arab Spring protests, Saif al-Islam warned that the country could fall into chaos. He supported the government’s crackdown on protesters. This speech changed how many people viewed him.
In 2011, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him. Militias later captured him in Zintan, where he remained in custody until 2017.
Return to Politics and Calls for Justice
In 2021, Saif al-Islam tried to return to politics. He registered as a candidate in Libya’s delayed presidential election. His move divided public opinion.
Supporters said he could bring stability. Critics said he represented dictatorship and past crimes. The elections were later postponed.
Before his death, he worked on a plan for national reconciliation, sources said. After the attack, his team called for an independent investigation. They urged courts, the UN, and human rights groups to find and punish those responsible.
Saif al-Islam Gadhafi, son of Libyan leader Moamer Gadhafi, gestures as he speaks during a meeting with different social organizations in the capital Tripoli
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