UN Warns of “Serious Development” as Military Mobilization Escalates in Libya

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed “deep concern” over the continued mobilization of armed forces and heavy weapons around Tripoli, calling the situation a “serious development” as tensions rise between rival factions.

The military build-up comes amid a looming confrontation between forces loyal to the Government of National Unity (GNU) and the Deterrence and Crime Combating Apparatus (RADA), affiliated with the Presidential Council, after negotiations failed to prevent armed conflict in the capital.

UNSMIL noted progress in security arrangement talks launched in June under the auspices of the Presidential Council and supported by the UN, but urged all sides to resume dialogue, exercise maximum restraint, and avoid actions that could endanger civilians. It warned that any use of force could trigger violent clashes.

The mission further stressed the need for all parties to adhere to international law, emphasizing accountability for any attacks targeting civilians or infrastructure.

Armed Convoys Advance Toward Tripoli

On Saturday, additional military convoys were spotted advancing from Misrata toward the capital, including dozens of vehicles carrying various weapons. Other convoys were seen near the Dafniya checkpoint, preparing to enter Tripoli, while military vehicles were also reported moving out of Al-Watiya Airbase in the same direction.

Earlier in May, GNU Prime Minister Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba ordered the dismantling of what he described as “unregulated armed groups” to reassert state authority over official institutions.

Risk of War in the Capital

Libyan political analyst Mohamed Al-Raeesh told Al Arabiya Net that the likelihood of war breaking out in Tripoli is increasing, citing RADA’s refusal to surrender its positions or accept any agreement that would reduce its military influence.

He argued that the GNU’s military mobilization and show of force in Tripoli streets appear to be supported by international actors and UNSMIL, which may be conditioning the continuation of the GNU’s role on sidelining RADA from the security scene.

Al-Raeesh added that the coming hours will be decisive, as efforts continue to pressure RADA into giving up its positions in exchange for a settlement that avoids civilian casualties and prevents full-scale war in the capital.

One of Libya’s Most Powerful Militias

Local media reported that RADA has refused to hand over state institutions under its control, dismissing claims it was given 48 hours to surrender. The group remains one of the most powerful armed factions in western Libya, controlling strategic sites such as the Mitiga complex, which includes the airport, an airbase, a military hospital, and a prison holding former Gaddafi-era officials and extremist leaders.

The standoff comes at a time when political paralysis continues to grip Libya, with rival factions failing to reach consensus despite sustained UN and international mediation efforts.