The International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor, Karim Khan, has announced that the process of identifying individuals responsible for crimes committed in Libya is nearing its conclusion.
This statement was made during a meeting with Libya’s Presidential Council Chairman, Mohamed Al-Mnifi, on Monday in New York, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly session.
The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between Libyan judiciary authorities and the ICC on human rights issues and other related cases. Both parties stressed the importance of applying the rule of law across Libya, according to a statement from al-Mnifi’s media office.
Khan emphasised that “the situation in Libya is a top priority for his office” and that “deepening cooperation with Libyan authorities and pursuing accountability are fundamental principles of the ICC.” He also highlighted the need to respect international law in order to achieve justice.
Al-Mnifi reiterated Libya’s commitment to prosecuting and punishing those responsible for crimes and violations as outlined by Libyan law. He expressed confidence in Libya’s national judiciary, despite the challenges the country continues to face.
He further pointed out the importance of collaboration between the Libyan judiciary and the ICC under the principle of complementarity, stressing the need for law enforcement, truth-telling, and accountability to support the broader goals of transitional justice and national reconciliation.
In his briefing to the UN Security Council on 14 May, Khan revealed that the ICC plans to deepen its cooperation with Libyan authorities “at all levels” and open an office in Tripoli to provide support to national officials. He indicated that the second phase of the ICC’s plan will be implemented by the end of 2025.
