Martin Kobler condemns military escalation: “Only political dialogue can solve the Libyan crisis”

7 Mar 2017

Martin Kobler condemns military escalation: “Only political dialogue can solve the Libyan crisis”

7 March 2017 – The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Martin Kobler, condemns the military escalation in Libya’s Oil Crescent region which jeopardizes the political process and risks igniting wider conflict. Martin Kobler stressed that “the immediate priority is to de-escalate tensions, prevent further loss of life and ensure that Libya’s national infrastructure and natural resources are under the control of legitimate authorities”. 
 
“This unacceptable violence in the oil crescent area again demonstrates the need for all parties to engage seriously in the political process in the framework of the Libya Political Agreement. The UN stands ready to host any inclusive mechanism that brings together empowered, representative Libyan stakeholders able to resolve those issues blocking implementation of the Agreement. Only a negotiated and inclusive political settlement can lead to peace, security and stability in Libya,” said Martin Kobler.