Intensified diplomatic and political manoeuvres are underway at both regional and international levels, aimed at bolstering stability across the region, with the Libyan issue at the forefront. These efforts coincide with escalating internal divisions and the persistent political stalemate gripping Libya.
These initiatives come at a time when Libya is witnessing heightened tensions between the Presidential Council and the Government of National Unity on one side, and the House of Representatives alongside other national forces on the other.
Diplomatic momentum in Cairo and Algiers
In the Egyptian capital, Cairo, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi received the Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit. Their discussions centred on the latest developments in regional crises, primarily the situation in the Palestinian territories, specifically the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. They also addressed evolving conditions in Libya, Syria, and Sudan, in addition to reviewing security concerns in the Horn of Africa and the security of the Red Sea.
President Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Arab League, stemming from Cairo’s belief in the League’s pivotal role in unifying Arab ranks and fostering joint action.
For his part, Aboul Gheit commended Egypt’s effective stances, which contribute to restoring security and stability in the region, particularly through advocating for a just resolution to the Palestinian cause.
In Algiers, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reiterated his country’s firm rejection of any external interference in Libyan affairs, affirming Algeria’s steadfast commitment to supporting peaceful political solutions based on respect for Libya’s national sovereignty.
Tebboune stated during his periodic meeting with media outlets that Algeria “categorically rejects” interference in the internal affairs of other nations, be it Libya or neighbouring countries. He indicated Algeria’s readiness to provide necessary support whenever requested, provided such assistance does not impinge upon independent Libyan decision-making.
European and UN calls for Libyan consensus
In Tripoli, the European Union Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando, met with Algerian Ambassador Abdelkarim Rakaybi. Both renewed their absolute commitment to Libya’s unity, integrity, and stability, and lauded the efforts being made by the United Nations Support Mission to advance the country’s political process.
In a joint statement, both parties urged all Libyan and international stakeholders to engage “constructively” in the political process. They underscored the paramount importance of reaching a consensus on a clear path that leads to the restoration of legitimacy and the unification of Libyan institutions.
EU Ambassador Orlando also called upon Libyan and international parties to “prioritise the Libyan national interest” and agree on a “credible roadmap” paving the way for presidential and parliamentary elections. He stressed that the European Union fully supports the efforts of the UN mission and the work of the advisory committee.
UN consultations and proposed solutions
In this context, the consultations being conducted by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), led by Envoy Hanna Tetteh, continue with broad segments of Libyan society. These discussions aim to deliberate on four political options proposed by the advisory committee, as a prelude to formulating a new roadmap for resolving the current Libyan crisis.
The outcomes of these consultations are expected to be presented during the Head of Mission’s briefing to the UN Security Council next August. The international community is heavily banking on this step to advance the political process.
While diplomatic activity intensifies around Libya, the true challenges remain primarily internal, demanding genuine national consensus and the prioritisation of public interest over political wrangling and narrow factional concerns. All of this is aimed at paving the way for a transitional phase that establishes a unified Libyan state enjoying lasting security and stability.
