Video: The continuing crisis in Libya

For many, the current escalating violence in Libya stems from one of the more complex political situations in the Middle East.

A simple dichotomy of Islamist versus secularist or liberal versus conservative does not apply in Libya, and mapping out the numerous factions, their international and domestic connections, their ultimate goals and their vested interests has proved a challenge for even the most skilled political commentators.

The open admission by Egypt that they are now striking Islamic State targets in Libya - following the execution of 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians - has further complicated the situation, leading to fears of increased outside intervention in the country.

Middle East Eye spoke to our reporter Steve Fox, who helped illustrate the turmoil in Libya from the summer of 2014 until the end of January, 2015: