The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on November 25 on a draft resolution to extend for another year the mandate authorizing member states to inspect vessels off Libya’s coast suspected of violating the international arms embargo. The current mandate, part of Operation IRINI, expires on November 28.
The renewal comes amid ongoing violations of the embargo, which has been in place since 2011 under UN sanctions intended to prevent the flow of weapons fueling Libya’s conflict. Despite repeated renewals, enforcement remains difficult due to political fragmentation, the presence of armed groups, and foreign mercenaries operating inside the country.
On the same day, the Security Council will also receive the International Criminal Court’s semi-annual briefing on Libya. The presentation, expected to be delivered by one of ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s deputies, will outline the latest developments in investigations into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by various parties since the 2011 uprising.
In his latest report to the Council, UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged persistent challenges in implementing the embargo. He said that despite the extension of authorization for member states to inspect ships bound to or from Libya, the embargo’s effectiveness remains limited. Guterres stressed that the flow of arms continues to destabilize the country and hinder international peace efforts.
The report also noted that the European Union has maintained its naval surveillance in the Mediterranean under Operation IRINI, which remains the main mechanism for enforcing the embargo. However, it warned that ongoing political volatility in Tripoli and the enduring influence of armed militias continue to obstruct progress toward stability and full compliance with UN resolutions.
The upcoming vote will determine whether the Security Council renews the mandate for another 12 months, a move seen as essential to curbing arms smuggling and supporting international efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Libya.
