UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that Libya is witnessing a growing arms race between rival forces in the east and west, as political divisions persist and the UN arms embargo remains largely ineffective.
In his latest report to the Security Council, covering the period from April 15 to October 14, 2025, Guterres said that compliance with the embargo “remains essential” to preventing renewed conflict and creating conditions for stability and peace. He noted that despite the ceasefire agreement, both sides continue to strengthen their military and security capabilities, with the risk of reigniting large-scale hostilities.
The report pointed to a continued political deadlock and growing militarization, highlighting recent clashes in southern Libya and violent incidents in Tripoli last May that underscored the fragility of the security situation.
The Secretary-General also reviewed the European Union’s Operation IRINI, which is responsible for monitoring violations of the arms embargo through maritime surveillance in the Mediterranean. During the six-month reporting period, the operation conducted 2,079 communications with vessels, 52 friendly approaches, and only two inspections — both pre-approved. No cases of weapons smuggling or prohibited materials were recorded.
Guterres said the findings highlight the need for “a broader and more integrated strategy” to enforce the embargo, stressing that monitoring efforts should extend beyond the sea to include air and land routes. He urged all UN member states to inspect shipments to and from Libya within their territories, including ports, airports, and land borders.
He also called on the international community to send a clear message that violating the arms embargo undermines Libya’s peace process and destabilizes the wider Sahel region. Strengthening Libya’s ability to inspect and secure its own territorial waters, he added, is key to long-term stability and sovereignty.
