Tripoli, February 3, 2026 – The 444th Combat Brigade categorically denies what is being circulated on social media platforms regarding its connection to the clashes that occurred in the city of Zintan and the accompanying news about the killing of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi.
The 444th Combat Brigade confirmed in a statement published on its official page that it has no military forces or field presence within the city of Zintan or its geographical scope. Furthermore, the brigade has not received any instructions or orders related to pursuing Saif al-Islam Gaddafi.
The brigade clarified that this matter is not within the scope of its military or security tasks, that it is not concerned with what happened in Zintan, and that it has no direct or indirect connection to the clashes taking place there.
The 444th Combat Brigade called on media outlets and social media users to verify the accuracy of information, rely on official statements, and not be drawn into rumors aimed at confusing matters, causing chaos, and fabrications.
Tripoli
Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. Historically, it was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC and has since been ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, and Italians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture, such as the ancient Medina and the Red Castle (Assaraya al-Hamra).
Zintan
Zintan is a city in northwestern Libya known for its strategic mountain location and its role in the 2011 Libyan Civil War, where local brigades played a significant part in the conflict against Muammar Gaddafi’s government. Historically, the area is associated with the Berber Nafusa Mountain communities and their cultural heritage.
444th Combat Brigade
The 444th Combat Brigade is a military unit of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, formed in 2022 during the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. It has been actively involved in defensive and combat operations in eastern Ukraine, notably participating in the defense of the Donetsk region.
Saif al-Islam Gaddafi
Saif al-Islam Gaddafi is the second son of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, who was a prominent and influential figure in his father’s regime before the 2011 Libyan Civil War. He was often presented as a reformist face to the West and was seen as a likely successor, but he was later indicted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity during the conflict.
