15 December 2014 – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemns the sharp military escalation in Libya. The Mission is in contact with both sides to the conflict and is calling for an immediate cessation of military operations to give the Libyan political dialogue a chance.

UNSMIL considers the military escalation as a direct attempt to undermine the political dialogue efforts, and those behind it clearly aim to scuttle the work to reach a political solution.

The Libyan oil belongs to the Libyan people and should not be manipulated by any group. Dialogue is a demand of the vast majority of Libyans and there is no other alternative. There can be no winner in the current military conflict and the use of violence and the force of arms will not succeed in achieving political objectives. The latest military escalation is evidence that dialogue to reach a consensus is all too necessary and should be pursued with stronger determination.

UNSMIL urges all the political actors to shoulder their responsibilities with courage and determination at this critical juncture in Libya's political transition in order to break this vicious circle of violence and more fighting. The various Libyan stakeholders are called upon to put their country's interest above all other considerations and work towards achieving a consensus political solution that ensures Libya's long-term stability and safeguards its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In this context, the Mission continues to consult with the parties, and is working on finalizing the necessary arrangements to ensure a successful convening of the Libyan political dialogue. Progress has been made in the Mission's efforts to facilitate the convening of a session soon.

The primary objective of this political dialogue will be to reach agreement on the management of the remainder of the transitional period, until such time that a new permanent constitution is adopted. Discussions will focus on finding solutions to the on-going crisis in the country, and will provide a forum for the country's political parties and tribal forces, as well as leaders of the armed groups, to be active partners in the search for an agreement. The proposed dialogue will also seek to put in place the necessary security arrangements in order to bring an end to the armed hostilities raging in different parts of the country.

The Mission reminds those who are involved in the military activities that their actions are in violation of Security Council resolution 2174 (2014), and that individuals and entities that threaten Libya's peace, stability or security will face targeted sanctions.