04 December 2014 – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemns in the strongest terms the recent air raids and the escalation in violence in Libya. The Mission notes with deep concern the disastrous impact that these attacks have on civilians, property and infrastructure.

UNSMIL also expresses deep concern at the negative effects the military escalation is having on the process of political dialogue. The Mission has proposed to convene a new round of inclusive dialogue among Libyan stakeholders next week to seek ways to end the political and security crisis in the country and restore stability. The continuing escalation in the violence and statements threatening more military action do not help create the atmosphere conducive to hold this political dialogue. Furthermore, this escalation amounts to an attempt to undermine the dialogue's chances. Consequently, all influential Libyan actors are called upon to do their utmost to ensure that this escalation ceases immediately, to give the dialogue in which all major Libyan stakeholders are taking part in the chance to succeed.

UNSMIL is convinced that those seeking to undermine the dialogue through these attacks will not achieve their objectives. Libyans wish for this dialogue to be successful and will not be deterred from supporting and participating in it.

The Libyan parties are reminded that under Security Council resolution 2174 (2014) individuals and entities that threaten Libya's peace, stability or security will face targeted sanctions. The Secretary-General has called on the parties to end the attacks and prevent further escalation. At a ministerial meeting in Brussels this week, key members of the international community warned that if key stakeholders fail to participate in the UN-led political process they will consider additional measures to protect Libya's unity, stability and prosperity. The International Contact Group convened by the African Union this week in Addis Ababa has called for an immediate and unconditional end to the fighting, and expressed support for resolution 2174. Only a few hours ago, foreign ministers of Libya's neighbours who met in Khartoum with the participation of Libyan Foreign Minister Mohammed Al-Dayri called on Libyan parties to immediately cease armed confrontations and promptly engage in the dialogue called for by the United Nations.

The Libyan parties are also reminded of their obligations under international humanitarian law, which prohibits attacks on civilian targets such as airports or ports or any other facility not being used for military purposes.