– The “Military City of Marshal Khalifa Haftar” was inaugurated in Qaminis, west of Benghazi today, which is considered as the largest military installations in the region, symbolizing advanced military integration and a significant leap in Libya’s defense capabilities. The city spans over 6,463 hectares and is among the largest military cities in Africa, with a potential capacity of 65,000 soldiers, positioning Libya among nations with modern and integrated military infrastructure. This reflects a strategic vision for enhancing security and stability in the region.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Commander-in-Chief of Libya’s National Army, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Prime Minister, alongside military branch leaders, notably the Chief of Staff of the National Army. Families of martyr, who sacrificed their lives for the stability of the nation, also participated in the event. The opening coincided with the 11th anniversary of the Operation Dignity against terrorism, featuring impressive military displays that showcased the combat readiness of the Libyan Armed Forces. The event attracted significant international attention, with official delegations from the United States, Italy, Russia, Greece, Turkey, and Belarus, as well as representatives from neighboring African countries like Niger and Chad. Arab delegations from Egypt, Morocco, Palestine, and Sudan were also present, highlighting the growing regional and international support for Libya’s security efforts.
In his speech during the inauguration, General Khaled Haftar, Chief of Staff of the Eastern Libyan Security Forces, stated, “The military city embodies the strategic vision of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces.” He announced the launch of the second phase of the city’s development, which will include a modern military hospital and a comprehensive residential area for military personnel, as well as the completion of military airport facilities. He addressed the troops participating in the military parade, saying, “You are the shield and sword on the borders defending this homeland; we are all devoted to Libya, its honor, and the unity of its land.” He added, “We have lost thousands of our soldiers in the fight against terrorism, which we have won on behalf of the world. The primary goal of the General Command is to restore the Libyan state and its prestige, and to enhance security and stability. The Libyan Armed Forces will always be at the service of the people.”
The Military City of Marshal Khalifa Haftar includes a range of advanced facilities, making it a unique training and logistics center. This includes an international shooting range with a capacity for 3,000 trainees for advanced training, an “intensive training area” accommodating 10,000 trainees, and a military museum documenting Libya’s history within the training zone. The city also features military educational schools to enhance personnel competencies, an indoor “sky dive” tunnel for simulating free-fall jumps, and a large parade ground spanning 70 hectares for military displays and training.
Beyond military aspects, the city boasts advanced sports and service facilities, creating a holistic community. It includes a massive military sports club, one of the largest in the world, with a capacity for 24,000 people and equipped with the latest training and fitness technologies. The city also has a football stadium for 10,000 spectators, alongside Olympic and semi-Olympic swimming pools. To ensure comprehensive healthcare, the city features a large hospital with 750 beds providing advanced medical services to soldiers and personnel. Additionally, there is a grand mosque accommodating 60,000 worshippers, recognized as a significant architectural landmark, along with a vast kitchen capable of serving food to 10,000 people daily. More than 15,000 workers and 1,500 engineers contributed to the construction of this monumental project, reflecting the substantial efforts invested in this strategic initiative, anticipated to enhance Libya’s defense capabilities and contribute to regional stability.