2023-08-16 20:48:56
The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy, Joseph Borrell, on Wednesday urged rival militias fighting in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, to stop the clashes and to engage in dialogue to de-escalate the situation in the country.
Although the confrontations – which They have resulted in 55 dead and more than 140 injured– seem to have diminished, Borrell has reminded the parties to fulfill their obligations under Humanitarian Law and thus guarantee the protection of civilians.
“The latest events are a vivid reminder of the fragility of the security situation in Libya and of the urgent need to hold elections to find a sustainable and inclusive political solution,” it said in a statement.
In this sense, he has asserted that he is following the fighting “with great attention and concern.” “The population is tired of being caught in the crossfire and deserves to have their aspirations for peace heard and fulfilled,” she added.
Finally, the High Representative reiterated “his firm support for the mediation efforts led by United Nations and his representative on the ground, Abdoulaye Bathily”.
Clashes broke out on Monday following the arrest of the commander of the Libyan Army’s 444th Combat Brigade, Mahmud Hamza, who was intercepted by members of the Dissuasion Force (Rada), a militia loyal to the Libyan unity government, recognized by the international community.
The parties reportedly agreed to stop the confrontations after handing over the commander to a third group considered a “neutral force”, the Stability Support Authority (SSA). The pact came after intense negotiations in which the prime minister of unity, Abdul Hamid Dbeibé, was present, according to ‘The Libya Observer’.
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