The United Nations mission in Libya has strongly condemned the violent killings that occurred in the Abu Salim area of Tripoli on the night of February 17, claiming the lives of at least 10 people. City security chiefs confirmed that among the victims were two members of a powerful armed faction, further exacerbating tensions in the already volatile region.
In response to the incident, the UN has urged Libyan authorities to swiftly investigate the matter and ensure an independent, rapid, and comprehensive investigation. The mission emphasized the importance of preventing any actions that could escalate tensions and lead to further violence, underscoring the fragility of security in Tripoli.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the risks posed by rivalries between security actors in Libya, which have persisted despite efforts to maintain stability. Libya has experienced little peace since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011, and the subsequent split in 2014 has only deepened divisions within the country.
While major warfare has subsided since a 2020 ceasefire, various armed groups still wield control over different government and security departments, leading to sporadic outbreaks of violence. Flashes of conflict have erupted in Tripoli since 2020, often linked to wider political disputes over control of the government.
The Tripoli security directorate reported that the 10 individuals were killed by an unidentified armed group, prompting the public prosecution to launch an investigation. The victims included two members of the Stabilization Support Apparatus, one of the largest and most prominent forces in Tripoli, as mourned by the SSA in a Facebook post.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve Libya’s conflict have centered on holding elections to replace outdated governing bodies, but political factions have yet to agree on the terms of a vote. The UN mission reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Libya, urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying causes of violence and insecurity.
