The weekend’s attacks against oil terminals in Libya have been condemned by France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and the United States in a joint statement.
The governments of the six countries urged for an immediate ceasefire and called on the warring parties to avoid action that could damage Libya’s energy infrastructure.
There is an “obligation to ensure oil revenues are used to provide essential services for the Libyan people,” the statement said.
“Libyan forces should unite in fighting the so-called Islamic State (IS) and other UN-
designated terrorist groups.
“Violence against fellow Libyans undermines Libya’s stability and encourages division. Political agreements, not conflicts, must determine Libya’s future,” the statement affirmed.
Meanwhile, UN Libya envoy Martin Kobler has expressed grave concern over recent fighting in Libya’s oil crescent area and called on military forces that moved into the area to immediately stop fighting and refrain from any further military escalation.
Kobler said in a statement issued by the mission: “I urge all parties to avoid any damage to the oil facilities. Natural resources belong to all Libyans and preserving oil infrastructure is in the national interest.”
He said: “Attacks on the oil terminals further threaten the stability and lead to a greater division of the country. They further restrict the oil exports and add to people’s suffering.”
He further called for respecting the UN Security Council Resolution 2259 that recognises the Government of National Accord consisting of the Presidency Council and the cabinet as the sole executive authority in the country.