TRIPOLI – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemns the ongoing armed clashes in Zawiya and surrounding areas, amid disturbing reports of civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries among residents caught in the fighting. The use of heavy weapons and indiscriminate fire in densely populated neighborhoods is unacceptable.
Reports that residential compounds near the oil refinery are being used for military purposes are also particularly alarming. Civilian infrastructure must not be turned into battlefields. All parties must immediately halt such practices and immediately cease hostilities as a matter of urgency.
The Mission calls on national authorities to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and fulfill their obligations under human rights and international humanitarian law. It also urges competent authorities to launch prompt, credible investigations into reported civilian harm and to ensure full legal and moral accountability, in line with the rule of law.
The situation in Zawiya risks wider destabilization. Continued fighting not only endangers lives but also threatens severe damage to strategic infrastructure, with serious humanitarian and economic consequences for Libya.
The Mission commends the efforts of influential leaders and security stakeholders working to de-escalate tensions, and remains ready to support Libyan efforts to restore calm, protect civilians, and safeguard Libya’s national resources.