United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on the UN Security Council to take new measures to strengthen the enforcement of the arms embargo on Libya, warning that continued violations risk fuelling internal escalation and renewed militarisation.
In a report submitted to the Security Council, based on findings by the Panel of Experts on Libya, Guterres outlined a series of recommendations aimed at reinforcing international efforts to curb the flow of weapons into the country.
He urged the council to adopt stricter actions to ensure effective implementation of the arms embargo, stressing that stronger enforcement is essential to prevent further instability and limit the rearmament of rival factions.
Guterres also highlighted the need to build the capacity of qualified Libyan personnel and institutions. He called for increased training and technical support to enable Libyan authorities to intercept vessels and inspect cargo shipments before they reach Libyan shores, a move aimed at tightening maritime controls and reducing illicit arms transfers.
The UN chief said that reinforcing the arms embargo could create conditions conducive to progress in Libya’s stalled political process. He noted that improved compliance would help reduce tensions on the ground and support ongoing international mediation efforts.
The report further stressed the urgent need to reunify Libya’s fragmented military and security institutions, describing this step as critical to achieving long-term stability and strengthening state authority.
Libya has faced persistent challenges in enforcing the UN arms embargo, with repeated reports of violations by external actors and local groups. The continued influx of weapons has been widely seen as a major obstacle to peace efforts and political reconciliation.
Guterres reiterated that coordinated international action and stronger monitoring mechanisms remain essential to stabilising Libya and advancing a sustainable political solution.
