The United Nations issued a plea for restraint on Friday amid growing fears of renewed conflict in Libya.
The Tripoli-based government has placed its forces on high alert in response to perceived threats from the eastern-based forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar.
Libya has been embroiled in a protracted civil war since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.
The country is divided between the UN-recognized government in Tripoli and Haftar’s administration, which controls much of eastern Libya.
A fragile ceasefire has been in place since 2020.
However, recent military movements in the country’s southwest have raised alarm.
The Tripoli government claims that Haftar’s forces are preparing an attack on the strategic oasis town of Ghadames.
Experts warn that such an offensive would likely lead to a full-scale resumption of hostilities.
Western powers have expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation.
In a joint statement, the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy condemned the military mobilization and urged all parties to de-escalate.
The Libyan Arab Armed Forces, led by Haftar’s son, Saddam Haftar, have justified their actions as an effort to secure the country’s southern borders.
But the Tripoli-based High State Council has dismissed this claim, accusing Haftar of seeking to expand his territory and undermine the ceasefire.
As tensions continue to rise, the specter of renewed violence looms large over Libya.
The international community is watching closely, with fears that the conflict could destabilize the entire region.