The United Nations Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has issued an urgent call for calm following the outbreak of heavy fighting in Tripoli, Libya’s capital.
In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter) late Monday, UNSMIL expressed deep concern over the violence, which reportedly involved the use of heavy weapons in densely populated neighborhoods. “UNSMIL is alarmed by the unfolding security situation in Tripoli,” the post read. “We urge all involved parties to halt the violence immediately and prioritize the protection of civilians.”
The mission emphasized that any assaults on civilians or civilian infrastructure could constitute war crimes under international law.
Local media and Reuters reported that gunfire erupted in parts of the capital amid rumors of the death of Abdulghani Kikli, a high-ranking figure within the Support Force Apparatus (SSA)—a major armed group in Tripoli affiliated with Libya’s Presidential Council.
Libya has faced prolonged instability since the 2011 fall of Muammar Gaddafi, with various militias vying for control. Though a ceasefire agreement in 2020 brought a measure of peace, the country remains politically fractured. The Government of National Unity (GNU) operates from Tripoli, while the eastern region is governed by the rival Government of National Stability based in Benghazi.
Tensions remain high, with sporadic clashes reflecting the ongoing power struggle, particularly over Libya’s vital oil and gas resources.
In response to the renewed violence, Libya’s health ministry instructed hospitals and emergency services in Tripoli to be on high alert, while the interior ministry advised residents to remain indoors for their safety.
The University of Tripoli also announced a suspension of all academic and administrative operations until further notice.
This flare-up of violence occurs as the U.S. government reportedly explores the possibility of deporting migrants to Libya. CNN recently reported that discussions were underway with Libyan authorities about accepting migrants from the United States. Although the plan appeared to be progressing, a scheduled deportation flight was abruptly canceled last week, and migrants were returned to detention. The White House has declined to comment on these developments.
Source: CNN
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