Security Council condemns abduction of Jordanian envoy in Libya, urges immediate release

The United Nations Security Council strongly condemned today’s attack in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, which resulted in the abduction of the Jordanian ambassador and injuries to his driver.

According to media reports, assailants opened fire on Fawaz al-Itan’s vehicle as he and his driver left his house in the morning. They then drove away with the diplomat.

“The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern at this attack and called for the immediate release of the Jordanian ambassador,” the 15-member body said in a statement issued to the press.

“The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that such acts are unjustifiable regardless of their motivations, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They underlined the need to bring the perpetrators of such acts to justice.”

The Council called on the Libyan authorities to protect diplomatic and consular property and personnel, to respect fully their international obligations in this regard, and to work towards the safe release of the ambassador.

Libya, which has been undergoing a democratic transition since the toppling of the regime of former leader Muammar al-Qadhafi three years ago, has been grappling with a dramatic increase in violence in recent month, including a campaign of targeted assassinations, bombings and abductions.