Tripoli, Libya – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed deep concern over reports of forces mobilizing in Tripoli and threats of violence aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis over the control of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL).
In a statement released on Thursday, UNSMIL’s deputy head, Stephanie Koury, warned that the political and military situations in Libya have deteriorated significantly in recent months, with armed factions becoming increasingly active.
“The display of military power and armed confrontations in densely populated neighborhoods is unacceptable and threatens the lives and security of civilians,” Koury stated.
The latest tensions arose following attempts by political factions to oust CBL head Sadiq al-Kabir. Rival armed groups have mobilized on both sides, heightening fears of further conflict.
Libya, a major oil producer, has been plagued by instability since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising. The country remains divided between warring eastern and western factions, with significant Russian and Turkish involvement.
Despite a ceasefire in 2020, efforts to end the political crisis have been unsuccessful. The country’s political leaders, drawn from outdated bodies, continue to compete for power and control over Libya’s substantial economic resources.
The High State Council, one of the internationally recognized legislative bodies, is currently in a stalemate following a disputed leadership vote. The eastern-based House of Representatives has also renewed calls to dissolve the Government of National Unity (GNU) and Presidency Council.
Tensions over the control of the central bank escalated after Presidency Council head Mohammed al-Menfi issued a decision to replace Kabir and the CBL board. This move was promptly rejected by the parliament, further fueling tensions.
