A senior US military official has underlined that Libya’s long-term stability depends on unifying its institutions, as Western countries step up cooperation with Tripoli through joint military exercises and counterterrorism efforts.
John Brennan, Deputy Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), said that achieving lasting stability in Libya hinges on national unity, pointing to renewed engagement between Libya and Western partners, particularly Italy.
Speaking in an interview with Askanews, Brennan highlighted Italy’s central role in strengthening cooperation with Libya, noting that Rome has become a key partner in supporting security coordination and regional stability initiatives.
He added that close collaboration between the United States and Italy in Africa spans a wide range of activities, from joint military training exercises in Libya to coordinated efforts in combating terrorism across the region.
Brennan also confirmed that Italy is hosting the multinational “Flintlock” military exercise, one of the largest special operations training events in Africa. The exercise aims to bring together Libyan partners with counterparts from across Africa and the wider international community to enhance coordination, readiness, and joint operational capabilities.
The Flintlock drills are part of broader international efforts to support Libya’s security sector, improve interoperability among allied forces, and address shared threats, including extremist groups and cross-border instability.
Libya has remained divided between rival administrations in recent years, with repeated international calls for unification of military and political institutions as a pathway to sustainable peace. Western partners have increasingly focused on security cooperation and capacity-building initiatives as part of a wider strategy to stabilise the country.
The renewed emphasis on joint exercises and international coordination reflects growing concern over security challenges in North Africa and the Sahel, where terrorism and irregular migration continue to pose significant risks.
Brennan’s remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic and military engagement aimed at reinforcing Libya’s role in regional security frameworks and fostering stronger ties with international partners.