Ban expresses concern about military mobilization in Libyan capital

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today expressed deep concern by recent developments in Libya and called on all parties and military leaders to abide by their moral and legal obligations to safeguard and protect civilians.

In a statement from his spokesperson, Mr. Ban said he was concerned in particular about “the growing military mobilization in and around the capital Tripoli”.

Armed confrontation “risks negating the sacrifices made by the Libyan people”, particularly at this critical juncture in the political transition process, the Secretary-General said.

He urged all parties in Libya to refrain from acts which undermine the democratic transition.

Last week, the UN mission in Libya (UNSMIL) voiced deep concern over recent violence in the country, and called on all sides to address differences through political means and on authorities to quickly address the lawlessness.

In today's statement, Mr. Ban urged all parties in Libya to resume dialogue, stressing that he would be ready to facilitate such dialogue in the interest of peace and national unity.

While undergoing its democratic transition, Libya has also been grappling with a deteriorating security situation. The first three months of this year witnessed a dramatic increase in violence across the country, according to the Secretary-General's Special Representative and head of UNSMIL, Tarek Mitri, including targeted assassinations, bombings, abductions and attacks on state institutions and civilians.