For once in Libya, not all the news is bad. In recent weeks, Islamic State (IS) has suffered a series of reverses that have seen the area under its control significantly reduced; Tobruk’s Hariga oil export terminal has re-opened after an oil marketing dispute forced its closure in May; and a deal has been reached to resolve the long-running split in the National Oil Corporation (NOC).

The Presidency Council, which heads the Libyan government under the 17 December Libyan Political Agreement (LPA), has gained the support of some militias and even taken at least nominal control of a few ministries. (CONTINUED - 2345 WORDS)