Turkey’s Ankara: General Mohamed Ali al-Haddad, the head of Libya’s army, died in a tragic plane crash close to Ankara while returning from a formal defense visit to Turkey. The private aircraft experienced an unexpected technical malfunction while traveling from Esenboga Airport in Ankara to Tripoli, the capital of Libya.
Only thirty minutes after takeoff, the aircraft reportedly lost communication with air traffic control. The aircraft crashed before landing, despite the pilot’s best efforts to return to Ankara. General al-Haddad was one of five passengers. Unfortunately, no survivors were discovered.
The Army Chief’s passing was confirmed by Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, who described it as a “great loss” for the country and military. General al-Haddad had just wrapped up high-level defense discussions with Turkish officials with the goal of enhancing military cooperation between Libya and Turkey.
Turkey temporarily closed its airspace after the collision and put security and rescue personnel on high alert. The precise cause of the technical failure is being investigated.
In Libya’s armed forces, General Mohamed al-Haddad was well-liked for his leadership and contribution to the stabilization of the country after the conflict. Both Turkish and Libyan officials are shocked by his passing, and condolences are coming in from all over the region.
This incident has spurred conversations about aviation safety procedures for diplomatic flights and highlights the dangers faced by officials during overseas missions.
Also read: Pakistan Seals $4B Defence Deal with Libya, Includes JF‑17 Fighter Jets
