UN Libya mission calls for restraint after latest violence in Benghazi

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)today expressed “deep concern” regarding the outbreak of violence in Benghazi that claimed the lives of many people and left many others injured.

“UNSMIL calls on all concerned to exercise maximum restraint and reiterates the necessity of resolving disagreements peacefully through dialogue and in a democratic spirit,” the Mission said in a statement.

According to media reports, some 20 people were killed and nearly 80 wounded yesterday when a militia in Benghazi, Libya's second largest city, opened fire on a group of protesters.

UNSMIL appealed to all Libyans to reject violence in all its forms and all acts of retaliation.

“The Mission calls on all Libyans to support national efforts to ensure security and stability throughout Libya,” UNSMIL said in its statement.

UNSMIL also conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those injured a speedy recovery.