Tripoli, Libya – The Libyan Government of National Unity, headed by Abdul Hamid Dabaiba, warned on Tuesday of the repercussions of sliding towards an armed confrontation. This threatens civil peace.
He said: “All national parties must avoid escalation and resort to political dialogue as the only option to overcome differences”. “Protecting Tripoli’s security and the safety of its residents is a top priority,” he added.
Al-Dabaiba explained that “the interest of the Libyan people will not be achieved except through stability and staying away from the cycle of violence.”
He also said: “We reject any attempts aimed at destabilizing or spreading chaos through incitement or acts of violence”.
The Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity pointed out that targeting public institutions and vital facilities poses a direct threat to the lives of citizens. “We are committed to continuing to protect civilians and maintain public order,” he continued.
Escalation in Tripoli
On Monday night and Tuesday morning, gunfire was heard. Intensive movements of military vehicles were also monitored in areas of Tripoli, amid an atmosphere of escalation. This prompted the United Nations Mission in Libya to issue a warning statement.
Libyan media said that intermittent gunfire with medium and light weapons was heard in the Sidra area, south of the capital. Additionally, tank carriers carrying tanks were also spotted leaving the Takbali camp. They were heading towards the Qasr Bin Ghashir area, south of Tripoli.
Local media revealed other military movements in various areas of Tripoli and nearby cities, including Zliten, Al-Khoms, and Tarhuna.
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya said that it “renews its deep alarm at reports of escalating tensions and continued military mobilization. This may lead to the outbreak of armed confrontations” in the capital.