Khalifa Haftar: A Controversial Figure in Libyan Politics

Early Life and Military Career

Khalifa Belqasim Haftar was born in Libya on November 7, 1943. He graduated from the Royal Military College in Benghazi and served in the Libyan Armed Forces for many years.

In 1969, Haftar was part of the group of officers who overthrew King Idris and established the Libyan Arab Republic.

Role in Gadhafi's Government

Haftar served in various positions in Gadhafi's government, including as Minister of Defense and Chief of Staff of the Libyan Armed Forces.

However, he fell out with Gadhafi in 1987 and went into exile in the United States.

Return to Libya and Rise to Power

Haftar returned to Libya in 2011 after the outbreak of the Libyan Civil War. He quickly established himself as a leader of the rebel forces and played a major role in the overthrow of Gadhafi's regime.

After the fall of Gadhafi, Haftar was appointed Chief of Staff of the Libyan National Army (LNA). He has since been a leading figure in the Libyan conflict, fighting against Islamist militias and rival factions.

Controversial Figure

Haftar is a controversial figure in Libyan politics. He has been accused of human rights abuses and of seeking to establish a dictatorship in Libya.

He is also seen by some as a stabilizing force in a country that has been plagued by chaos and violence since the fall of Gadhafi.

Links to Russia

Haftar has close ties to Russia, which has provided his forces with military support. He has also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on several occasions.

These ties have raised concerns among Western powers, who fear that Russia is using Haftar to increase its influence in Libya.

Outlook

The future of Khalifa Haftar is uncertain. He remains a powerful figure in Libyan politics, but he faces many challenges, including the ongoing conflict and the international community's concerns about his human rights record.

Only time will tell whether Haftar will be able to overcome these challenges and establish himself as the leader of a united and peaceful Libya.