UN Chief Guterres Calls for ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ in Libya

Published January 4th, 2020 - 06:27 GMT
Incoming UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses UN delegates at the General Assembly December 12, 2016, at the United Nations in New York. (AFP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)
Incoming UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses UN delegates at the General Assembly December 12, 2016, at the United Nations in New York. (AFP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)
Highlights
Antonio Guterres wants ‘return to political dialogue by all parties’,

The head of the UN urged Saturday an "immediate ceasefire" in war-weary Libya where the internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) fights forces affiliated with Gen. Khalifa Haftar.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wants a "return to political dialogue by all parties,” the UN said in a statement. “Any foreign support to the warring parties will only deepen the ongoing conflict and further complicate efforts to reach a peaceful and comprehensive political solution.”


Emphasizing the continued violations of the UN Security Council (UNSC) arms embargo imposed in 2011 would make matters worse, the statement said "strict adherence to the embargo is essential for creating an environment favorable to a cessation of hostilities.

Since the ouster of late longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, two seats of power have emerged in Libya: one in eastern Libya supported mainly by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates and another in Tripoli, which enjoys UN and international recognition.

This article has been adapted from its original source.

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