The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, Stephanie Khoury, briefed the Security Council on the situation in Libya.
“Over the past two months, the situation in Libya has deteriorated rapidly in terms of politics, economy, security, and overall stability,” Khoury said.
She added: “Unilateral actions by political, military and security actors in Libya have increased tensions, entrenched divisions in the country and complicated efforts to reach a negotiated solution.”
“I will highlight a few things,” Khoury continued. “On August 9, the Libyan National Army moved into southwestern Libya, against armed groups, to secure the border in the southwest of the country, but this move created tensions in the west and increased problems for Libya’s neighbor Algeria. On July 23, forces affiliated with the Government of National Unity moved west, prompting the Libyan National Army to push other groups to take control of that area.”
She added: “The unilateral measures by security and political parties undermine stability, such as the attempt to remove the governor of the Central Bank, as well as the removal of Prime Minister Dabaiba and his government, which was met with attempts to preserve him, and all of this leads to destabilization.”
Khoury continued, saying: “Our mission continues to work to release all those detained without legal reason… In the humanitarian field in southeastern Libya, the recent floods in the country have displaced about 5,800 people.”
She added: “Since the outbreak of the conflict in Sudan, the number of refugees in Libya has increased to 97,000 from Sudan, most of whom are heading to Kufra,” noting that “response plans for refugees in Libya are only 21% funded.”
“The status quo cannot last,” Khoury added. “In the absence of political talks, the country is heading towards further division and instability. Libyans are frustrated by the status quo. People cannot withdraw their money from banks to meet their needs. Many express their fear of war and armed clashes and can only think of trying to leave. This is unacceptable.”
Khoury concluded by saying: “We are focusing on good efforts to calm the situation, maintain stability, build confidence between the most important parties, and prepare for political talks. Progress in the political process is the priority, and we count on the support of the Security Council to achieve stability.”
Last update: August 20, 2024 – 23:43
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2024-08-21 05:01:31