Libya: Security Council condemns ongoing violence and its use to pursue political gains

According to a press statement, the Council reiterated once again the need for all sides to engage in political dialogue and refrain from fighting. The country’s recent turmoil is reportedly some of the worst fighting since the 2011 uprising that ousted former leader Muammar al-Qadhafi and the North African nation embarked on its democratic transition.

The Council went on to welcome the announcement of the results of Libya’s parliamentary elections held on 25 June and urged the expeditious seating of the Council of Representatives to begin the important work of building the nation’s political consensus. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Drafting Assembly would draft a document that meets the aspirations of the Libyan people.

In addition, the 15-member Council underscored the importance of a durable commitment of the international community, in close coordination with the UN, to support Libya’s elected representatives and government as they pursue peace and stability.

Last week, the top UN official in Libya said that the recent confrontations, born out of deep political polarization, were playing themselves out at the country’s international airport. Much of the fighting had focused on attempts by different armed groups to assert control over Tripoli’s airport.

On Wednesday the Council expressed support to the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), which in recent weeks has come under militia shelling and has since reduced and then altogether withdrew its international staff in the country.