The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed “deep concern” on Saturday over the continued mobilization of heavy weapons and armed forces around the capital Tripoli, describing the development as “a dangerous escalation.”
In a statement, the UN mission urged all parties to “continue dialogue to resolve outstanding disputes as soon as possible and exercise maximum restraint to prevent an escalation that could put civilians at risk.” It warned that any use of force, intentional or accidental, “may trigger violent confrontations.”
Fears for Civilians in Tripoli
The mission stressed that “the recent military buildup has become a major source of concern among Tripoli’s residents,” calling on authorities to ensure that clashes are prevented in order to avoid potential harm to civilians in Libya’s most densely populated city.
UNSMIL reiterated that attacks targeting civilians or civilian infrastructure are unlawful under international humanitarian and human rights law, recalling that the UN Security Council, on May 17, emphasized the need for accountability for such crimes.
The mission said it would continue supporting mediation efforts and work with key stakeholders to sustain the ceasefire, noting progress in security arrangements talks under the auspices of the Presidential Council and backed by UNSMIL since June.
EU and Local Groups Also Voice Alarm
On Friday, the European Union Delegation to Libya also warned of deteriorating security conditions in Tripoli, urging all security forces to withdraw immediately from residential areas to prevent escalation.
Meanwhile, local voices from Tajoura, east of Tripoli, rejected the stationing of armed groups in their city, holding military and security institutions responsible for any resulting fallout.
In solidarity, the “Souq al-Juma Movement” issued a statement rejecting war in Tripoli, expressing support for Tajoura’s residents, and denouncing what it described as a “threat to the capital’s security and a blow to the political process sponsored by the UN mission.”
