The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemned the armed clashes that erupted in Tajoura on Friday, followed by military buildups in and around Tripoli. The mission expressed deep concern over reports of civilian casualties, injuries, and the displacement of families.
UNSMIL strongly condemned the use of heavy weaponry in populated areas, reminding all parties of their obligations to protect civilians. The mission welcomed efforts to de-escalate the situation and the agreement to cease hostilities, urging all parties to fully adhere to it.
Additionally, UNSMIL called on Libyan authorities to take responsibility by ending the clashes, restoring calm to residential areas, and holding those responsible accountable. The mission emphasized that these events highlight the urgent need to unify Libya’s military and security forces and to accelerate the political process towards credible elections that can bring lasting stability and prosperity to the country.
Recent clashes in Tajoura, a suburb of Tripoli, Libya, erupted between two rival militias, Rahba al-Duruae and al-Shahida Sabriya. The violence, which included the use of heavy weapons, resulted in at least nine deaths and sixteen injuries, terrorizing local residents. The clashes were reportedly triggered by an assassination attempt on a militia leader, which escalated into hours of fighting. This incident underscores the ongoing instability in Libya, where militia infighting continues to destabilize the region despite efforts at political reconciliation and military unification.
The situation in Libya remains fragile, with the western and eastern factions, each supported by different armed groups, vying for control. The violence in Tajoura is part of a broader pattern of militia clashes in the western part of the country, contributing to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis
