A Deadly Crash: Libya's Military Chief and Others Lose Their Lives in Turkey

A plane crash in Turkey has taken the lives of Libya's military chief and six others. The incident happened just after takeoff from Ankara, the country's capital. The plane, a Falcon 50 business jet, was heading back to Libya when it went down near the village of Kesikkavak. Turkish officials say the plane sent out a distress signal before vanishing from radar. The Libyan delegation was in Ankara for important defense talks. They aimed to strengthen military ties between Libya and Turkey. The group included high-ranking officers and crew members. Among the dead is General Muhammad Ali Ahmad al-Haddad, a key figure in Libya's military. His role was crucial in efforts to unite Libya's divided military forces. Libya's Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah confirmed the tragedy. He called the crash a "great loss" for the country. The identities of the three crew members are still unknown. Turkish authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. They suspect a technical malfunction may be to blame.The crash has raised questions about safety and cooperation between the two countries. It also highlights the ongoing instability in Libya. The country has been in chaos since the 2011 uprising that overthrew dictator Moammar Gadhafi. Rival administrations and militias continue to struggle for control. Turkey has been involved in Libya's conflict, supporting the western-based government. However, it has recently taken steps to improve relations with the eastern-based government as well. The crash comes just a day after Turkey extended the mandate for its troops in Libya. This move shows Turkey's continued interest in the region. The crash has sparked a thorough investigation. Four prosecutors have been assigned to look into the incident. Libya will also send a team to Ankara to work with Turkish authorities. The crash serves as a reminder of the risks and complexities involved in international military cooperation.