As Libya prepares to mark Eid al-Adha, United Nations Special Representative Hanna Serwaa Tetteh issued an urgent appeal to all parties in influence to preserve the fragile ceasefire in Tripoli and prioritize peace over conflict.
Her call follows the deadly clashes that erupted in the capital on May 12 and 13 between armed factions, raising fears of renewed violence in the lead-up to the holiday.
In a public statement marking Eid, Tetteh urged political and military leaders to treat the current truce not as a pause but as a shared responsibility to protect. She stressed that the use of force to resolve disputes deepens national divisions and delays any chance of long-term stability.
“This blessed occasion is a time for reflection, sacrifice, and compassion,” she said. “It reminds us of the strength that comes from unity, and the importance of supporting each other through difficult times.”
Tetteh emphasized that sustainable peace in Libya can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and peaceful negotiation, not through armed confrontation.
While the statement did not name any groups directly, it was clearly aimed at both state-aligned and non-state actors who continue to contest influence in Tripoli and other parts of the country.
The United Nations and international partners have warned that any escalation in the capital could derail efforts to reach a political agreement and hold long-delayed presidential and parliamentary elections.
Tetteh’s message comes amid renewed diplomatic activity by the UN mission in Libya, including consultations with local communities and political stakeholders to explore options for reviving a unified roadmap toward elections.
