On January 19, 2026, the residents of Waddan commemorated the 111th anniversary of the Battle of Qarat al-Tawza, which took place in 1915 between Libyan mujahideen and the invading Italian forces.

A ceremony was organized for this occasion, during which several speeches were delivered praising the sacrifices and bravery of the ancestors in confronting the heavily armed Italian forces, which suffered significant losses in lives and equipment, despite the simple capabilities and weapons of the heroic mujahideen.

The ceremony included equestrian displays, affirming the prominent role horses played in the battles of the Libyan jihad and their importance during that period. It also featured the lighting of the jihad torch, a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah in remembrance of the souls of the martyrs of the Battle of Qarat al-Tawza, and the laying of a wreath in honor of the martyrs of Waddan in the battles of jihad against colonialism.

The event saw participation from various groups.

The program also included a detailed historical narration of the Battle of Qarat al-Tawza and a review of the heroic acts performed by the ancestors in defense of the homeland, alongside the participation of a selection of poets who recited patriotic poems embodying pride in history and jihad, and affirming deep belonging and loyalty to the sacrifices of the martyrs.

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Waddan

Waddan is a historic desert oasis town in central Libya, known for its traditional mud-brick architecture and ancient underground irrigation systems (foggaras). It served for centuries as a vital caravan stop on trans-Saharan trade routes, connecting North Africa with sub-Saharan regions. Today, it is recognized for its well-preserved old town, offering a glimpse into Libya’s Saharan cultural heritage.

Battle of Qarat al-Tawza

The Battle of Qarat al-Tawza was a significant military engagement in 1929 during the Ikhwan Revolt in the Arabian Peninsula. It was fought between the forces of King Abdulaziz Al Saud (Ibn Saud) and the rebellious Ikhwan tribesmen, resulting in a decisive victory for the Saudi royal army that helped consolidate the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Qarat al-Tawza

Qarat al-Tawza is an archaeological site in the Al-Ula region of northwestern Saudi Arabia, known for its ancient tombs and rock carvings. It is part of the larger Nabataean and Dadanite civilizations that thrived in the area from roughly the first millennium BCE, serving as a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange along the incense routes. The site offers important insights into the pre-Islamic history and funerary practices of the Arabian Peninsula.

Libyan jihad

The term “Libyan jihad” is not a specific place or cultural site, but a historical period referring to the 2011 armed uprising and civil war that led to the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi’s government. This conflict involved various Libyan factions and international intervention, and its aftermath led to prolonged instability and fragmentation within the country.

Surah Al-Fatihah

“Surah Al-Fatihah” is the opening chapter of the Quran, the holy book of Islam. It is a foundational prayer recited in every unit of Muslim worship and is considered a summary of the Quran’s core message. While not a physical site, its history is tied to the Quran’s revelation in the 7th century CE to the Prophet Muhammad in Mecca and Medina.

martyrs of Waddan

The Martyrs of Waddan refers to a monument and commemorative site in the Libyan town of Waddan, honoring local resistance fighters who were executed by Italian colonial forces in 1929. It memorializes a key event during the Italian occupation of Libya, symbolizing the struggle and sacrifice for national independence. Today, it serves as a place of remembrance and a symbol of Libyan patriotism.