A fragile calm has descended upon Libya's capital after intense clashes erupted earlier this week, reportedly triggered by the killing of a prominent militia leader. The fighting, which saw heavy weaponry deployed in densely populated areas, forced hundreds of families to flee and placed severe strain on local hospitals before a ceasefire was announced Wednesday.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged all parties to consolidate the ceasefire, expressing alarm at the "rapid nature of the escalation" which drew armed groups from outside Tripoli and subjected neighbourhoods to heavy artillery. His spokesperson reiterated the obligation to protect civilians. Throughout the week, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) labelled the situation "deeply alarming," demanding an "immediate, unconditional ceasefire" and warning that attacks harming civilians could constitute war crimes.
Amidst the turmoil, International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan announced a new phase in its investigation into alleged war crimes in Libya, citing increased cooperation. He told the UN Security Council of "an unprecedented six months of dynamism," though noting dismay over the controversial return of arrested commander Osama Elmasry Najim to Libya. Khan asserted such actions send "shockwaves," signalling "the rule of law has entered the territory of Libya" and vowed to "break open" the "black box of suffering."
In a significant step, Libya formally granted the ICC jurisdiction over crimes committed on its soil from 2011 to 2027, a move Khan described as a "new chapter." The nation has remained deeply fragmented since Muammar Gaddafi's ousting in 2011, with rival administrations vying for control amidst competition over vast oil wealth.