By Libya Herald reporters.
Tunis, 4 January 2017:
The growing conflict in central Libya between the Misratan Third Force, acting in the name of the Presidency Council and the Libyan National Army has brought urgent appeals for a ceasefire.
Some commentators fear the airstrikes from both sides and the rising tide of invective – for instance Khalifa Hafter described Tuesday’s Jufra air assault while a Misratan delegation was in the town, as an attack on terrorists – as bringing the country dangerously close to civil war.
UNSMIL chief Martin Kobler today warned of the risks of escalation. “I urge all parties to act with restraint and to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue” he said. He called for local and national reconciliation and the avoidance of any act or rhetoric that might inflame the situation.
He once again insisted that the Libyan Political Agreement should be carried out. He also stressed his support for the continuing battle against terrorism in Libya. His remarks were endorsed by the British ambassador Peter Millett.
