Over the past two days, the capital, Tripoli, has witnessed heightened tension amid military build-ups and movements on its eastern and western outskirts, as political and international efforts seek to contain the situation and avert the outbreak of armed clashes.
In this context, the Chairman of the Presidential Council, Mohamed al-Menfi, and the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid Dbeibah, held a meeting with a number of military commanders in an effort to avoid escalation and prevent any violence inside the capital.
Presidential Council’s position
The meeting between al-Menfi and Dbeibah, held on Sunday night, produced an initial understanding on a general framework aimed at bolstering stability and revitalizing institutional work, in line with existing legislation and international standards. The final agreement is currently being drafted, ahead of setting a date and formalities for its signing.
Government’s position
By contrast, the Government of National Unity has not yet issued a clear official position on the details of the agreement between al-Menfi and Dbeibah, raising questions about the nature of the understandings reached.
International warnings
For its part, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed “deep concern” over the continued military mobilization and presence of heavy weapons around the capital, describing it as a “dangerous development.”
The mission noted progress in talks ongoing since last June on security arrangements, under the auspices of the Presidential Council and with UN support, affirming that several key files have seen the parties draw closer. It called on all sides to continue dialogue, exercise restraint, and refrain from any steps that could endanger civilian lives, recalling the Security Council resolution of 17 May on holding those responsible for attacks against civilians to account.
The European Union Delegation to Libya also warned about security developments in Tripoli, urging all forces to withdraw immediately from urban areas and confirming its readiness to support UN efforts to protect civilians and maintain stability.
Domestic responses
Domestically, residents of Tajoura, east of Tripoli, announced that they would not allow any armed force to station itself inside the city’s camps, holding security and military bodies fully responsible for the repercussions of the ongoing movements.
The Souq al-Jumaa movement likewise issued a statement expressing solidarity with the people of Tajoura and rejecting war in Tripoli, amid circulating reports of military mobilizations by armed groups.
