The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has presented a detailed report to the Security Council on the deteriorating situation in Libya, highlighting intensifying armed tensions, deep political fragmentation, and growing human rights violations that risk plunging the country back into chaos.
Tensions have sharply increased between the forces of Saddam Haftar and Hassan Al-Zadama, particularly in the central and southern regions, following a decision to restructure the 128th “Moa’azzaz” Brigade and limit its operations to the Al-Jufra area.
This led to deadly clashes near Al-Qatrun, where the brigade refused to surrender its military assets despite the mediation of Tebu tribal leaders. Dozens of casualties were reported, while the 5+5 Joint Military Committee remained silent, further escalating concerns.
The situation worsened when forces affiliated with the Libyan National Army took control of the Tinedi camp near Ubari, previously under the authority of the commander of Sabha appointed by the Government of National Unity. This act was seen as a violation of the 2020 ceasefire agreement.
National reconciliation remains fragile and hindered by divisions between the Presidential Council and the House of Representatives, who continue to dispute a unified reconciliation law. A peace and security pact signed under the African Union framework, with the participation of key Libyan figures including Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, sparked controversy. Supporters of Prime Minister Dabaiba rejected the pact and called for a more inclusive reconciliation initiative. Guterres stressed the urgency of a unified legal framework that aligns with Libya’s international obligations and transitional justice standards.
In the west, instability is growing. Interior Minister Emad Trabelsi announced the formation of a joint security room to enforce arrest warrants in the western mountain region, amidst competition among armed groups for control over the Ghadames oil basin. Meanwhile, the government launched military operations—by land and air—targeting alleged smuggling networks in coastal cities like Zawiya, Sabrata, Zuwara, and Al-Ajilat. Tripoli has also witnessed repeated clashes between rival militias, resulting in injuries and civilian property damage. Institutional tensions reached the National Oil Corporation after an investigation was launched against Chairman Farhat Bengdara for alleged financial and administrative misconduct. He later resigned citing health reasons.
The report highlights alarming human rights abuses, including politically motivated arbitrary arrests, forced disappearances, and coerced confessions broadcast publicly—practices that undermine justice and due process. Lawyers, judiciary members, and their relatives have also been targeted. A prominent lawyer remains arbitrarily detained in Benghazi since March 12, and the brother of an anti-corruption activist was abducted on March 24.
The release and return of Osama Nejm to Libya despite an ICC arrest warrant raises concerns about accountability for serious crimes. The discovery of mass graves in eastern Libya confirms the existence of entrenched networks of human trafficking, torture, and extortion targeting migrants and asylum seekers.
Guterres emphasized the importance of reviving the political process through the UN-facilitated advisory committee, calling for a unified national budget and robust financial oversight mechanisms. He urged the reunification of the High Council of State and expressed serious concern over the growing number of international law and human rights violations committed by security actors across the country. Finally, he called for stronger efforts to protect migrants and refugees, dismantle trafficking networks, and hold perpetrators of abuses accountable.