Following recent armed clashes in Tripoli that resulted in civilian casualties and widespread damage to civilian facilities, UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) underlined “the importance of avoiding any actions or statements that undermine the fragile calm.”
The Mission called Thursday on all parties to concentrate on taking all necessary measures to prevent further violence.
UNSMIL reminded all parties of their obligations under International humanitarian law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including detention centers, and welcomed the Libyan authorities’ stated plans to remove armed group installations from civilian areas in Tripoli.
The Mission commended the mediation and preventive efforts undertaken by community leaders, the Joint Military Commission, and the Army’s Chief of Staff in Tripoli, and encouraged them to continue to engage the concerned parties.
UNSMIL called on parties to resolve disputes through dialogue and reiterates that the current political impasse can only be resolved through inclusive national elections that enable the Libyan people to choose their leaders and renew the legitimacy of institutions.
“Libyan leaders must agree on a pathway to elections without delay,” The UN Mission said in its statement.