TRIPOLI – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has issued a call for de-escalation and peaceful dialogue, expressing deep concern over the continued mobilization of forces and heavy weaponry around the capital. The Mission described the military buildup as a dangerous development that is instilling widespread fear among the city’s residents.
In its statement, UNSMIL acknowledged that discussions on security arrangements for Tripoli have been progressing under the auspices of the Presidency Council within the Truce Committee and the Security and Military Arrangements Committee since June, with the Mission’s support. Progress has also been noted on a number of issues of concern to the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The Mission called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid escalating tensions and to continue dialogue to resolve the matter peacefully. It warned that any action involving the use of force, whether intentional or not, carries the potential to escalate into violent clashes. Authorities were urged to prevent any outbreak of clashes due to the potential harm to civilians in the country’s most densely populated city.
UNSMIL reiterated its commitment to supporting ongoing mediation efforts and engaging with key stakeholders to address emerging challenges and ensure the sustainability of the truce.
The Mission also reminded all actors of their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law, stressing that attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are unlawful. It further highlighted that the United Nations Security Council, in a 17 May statement, warned that those responsible for such attacks would be held accountable.