The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has issued a grave alarm over rapidly escalating tensions and military mobilization around Tripoli, warning it could lead to a devastating armed confrontation.
In a stark statement, UNSMIL expressed awareness of ongoing negotiations under the Presidency Council and entreated all parties to continue discussing remaining issues in good faith, acting in the best interest of Tripoli’s civilian population. The Mission stressed that every human life is precious and that any new conflict risks not only the safety of the capital but also the potential for violence to spread across the country, leading to a ‘lose-lose’ war that would critically endanger civilians.
The UN mission urgently called on all actors to cease any preparations for violence and to avoid actions that would place civilians in danger, emphasizing that civilian lives and infrastructure must be protected under all circumstances. It warned that renewed conflict would have devastating consequences for Libya and its people.
Reiterating its readiness to support mediation, the United Nations offered to strengthen its support for the ongoing negotiations and work with all parties to resolve outstanding issues. UNSMIL urged all concerned parties to seize the moment to negotiate in good faith and resolve their differences at the table, not on the battlefield.