United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice.

Bodies of the migrants were found on a beach in the morning on Friday. Most of the migrants were burned inside a charred boat.

"While the exact circumstances remain to be determined, the killings reportedly resulted from clashes between rival traffickers," the UN mission UNSMIL said in a statement.

It urged authorities in the North African nation "to ensure a swift, independent and transparent investigation to bring all perpetrators to justice".

Libya was a key route for clandestine migration even before the 2011 uprising that overthrew dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

Lawlessness after the death of Kadhafi made the situation worse. The migration via sea from Libya is considered to be the world's deadliest migration route. The western city of Sabratha is just 300 kilometres from Lampdusa, the Italian island.

Migrants often face horrific treatment at the hands of smuggling gangs.

Rights groups have repeatedly accused authorities and armed groups operating under state auspices of torture and other abuses.

The latest killings are "a stark reminder of the lack of protection migrants and asylum seekers face in Libya, and the widespread human rights violations undertaken by powerful trafficking and criminal networks who need to be swiftly stopped and prosecuted," UNSMIL said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice.

United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice. Bodies of the migrants were found on a beach in the morning on Friday. Most of the migrants were burned inside a charred boat. "While the exact circumstances remain to be determined, the killings reportedly resulted from clashes between rival traffickers," the UN mission UNSMIL said in a statement. It urged authorities in the North African nation "to ensure a swift, independent and transparent investigation to bring all perpetrators to justice". Libya was a key route for clandestine migration even before the 2011 uprising that overthrew dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Lawlessness after the death of Kadhafi made the situation worse. The migration via sea from Libya is considered to be the world's deadliest migration route. The western city of Sabratha is just 300 kilometres from Lampdusa, the Italian island. Migrants often face horrific treatment at the hands of smuggling gangs. Rights groups have repeatedly accused authorities and armed groups operating under state auspices of torture and other abuses. The latest killings are "a stark reminder of the lack of protection migrants and asylum seekers face in Libya, and the widespread human rights violations undertaken by powerful trafficking and criminal networks who need to be swiftly stopped and prosecuted," UNSMIL said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN denounces 'heinous killing' of migrants in Libya

World at War | Episode 18: Taiwan shoots down suspected Chinese drone for the first time Ukraine mounts a counter-offensive to retake Kherson Solomon Islands bans all foreign military ships from docking at its port & 32 killed in Tripoli, as Libya edges closer to another civil war Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

World at War | Episode 18: Taiwan shoots down suspected Chinese drone for the first time

A UN representative on Tuesday (August 30)&nbsp;expressed concern about the situation in Libya and warned stating that it still risks escalating into new violence as the country struggles to prepare for an election.

Rosemary DiCarlo, under-secretary-general for politics, said, "I am deeply concerned that the ongoing stalemate and continued delays in implementing the electoral process pose a growing threat to security in and around Tripoli, and potentially to all Libyans."

32 people were killed last week when heavy gunfire and mortars broke out in many districts throughout Tripoli, AFP reported. The fights were attributed to one another by the competing prime ministers, Abdulhamid Dbeibah and Fathi Bashagha.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-clashes-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-disputes-in-the-country-511158">Also read |&nbsp;Libya clashes: Everything you need to know about the disputes in the country</a>

DiCarlo said, "This appeared to be another attempt of pro-Bashagha forces to enter the capital from the east." She further explained that those efforts were blocked by pro-Dbeibah forces.

"Since then, the situation remained tense and fluid," AFP reported.

Since the previous emissary, Jan Kubis, abruptly left the role in November, a number of Security Council members have advocated for the prompt nomination of a new head of the UN mission in Libya.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-clashes-death-toll-rises-to-32-159-wounded-so-far-510981">Also read |&nbsp;Libya clashes: Death toll rises to 32, 159 wounded so far</a>

Despite the Libyan government’s misgivings, various diplomatic sources claim that the Security Council has approved the appointment of Senegale Abdoulaye Bitali.

The UN mission of the nation is only now being extended for a short time due to that vacancy, and Russia demands the nomination of a replacement envoy before any additional extensions.

The nation of nearly 7 million people is nevertheless worried that disagreements will ensure no matter how the upcoming rounds of conversations and positions turn out.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A UN representative on Tuesday (August 30) expressed concern about the situation in Libya and warned stating that it still risks escalating into new violence as the country struggles to prepare for an election.

A UN representative on Tuesday (August 30) expressed concern about the situation in Libya and warned stating that it still risks escalating into new violence as the country struggles to prepare for an election. Rosemary DiCarlo, under-secretary-general for politics, said, "I am deeply concerned that the ongoing stalemate and continued delays in implementing the electoral process pose a growing threat to security in and around Tripoli, and potentially to all Libyans." 32 people were killed last week when heavy gunfire and mortars broke out in many districts throughout Tripoli, AFP reported. The fights were attributed to one another by the competing prime ministers, Abdulhamid Dbeibah and Fathi Bashagha. Also read | Libya clashes: Everything you need to know about the disputes in the country DiCarlo said, "This appeared to be another attempt of pro-Bashagha forces to enter the capital from the east." She further explained that those efforts were blocked by pro-Dbeibah forces. "Since then, the situation remained tense and fluid," AFP reported. Since the previous emissary, Jan Kubis, abruptly left the role in November, a number of Security Council members have advocated for the prompt nomination of a new head of the UN mission in Libya. Also read | Libya clashes: Death toll rises to 32, 159 wounded so far Despite the Libyan government’s misgivings, various diplomatic sources claim that the Security Council has approved the appointment of Senegale Abdoulaye Bitali. The UN mission of the nation is only now being extended for a short time due to that vacancy, and Russia demands the nomination of a replacement envoy before any additional extensions. The nation of nearly 7 million people is nevertheless worried that disagreements will ensure no matter how the upcoming rounds of conversations and positions turn out. (With inputs from agencies)

United Nations warns of further violence outbreak risk in Libya

Libya's capital Tripoli was eerily quiet on Sunday, a day after the worst fighting which resulted in 32 people getting killed and 159 getting injured. This as forces aligned with the parliament-backed administration attempted to dislodge the Tripoli-based government but failed.

Libya: Deadly clashes between political factions in Tripoli kills 32, injures 159

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The violent clash between two opposing militia groups in Tripoli on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 people and injured 159, bringing back violence to the Libyan city. The two competing administrations - one located in the capital and the other authorised by a parliament in the country's east - are fighting for control over the North African country and its oil and trade resources.

Videos shared online showed dozens of cars and buildings damaged. Roads were reopened. However, after hours of raging violence, the city was back to normal.

The north African country has been in turmoil since Muammar Gaddafi was ousted and later murdered in 2011. The country is being contested by two regimes and is awaiting elections. The general election was to happen last year but got delayed due to clashes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-clashes-death-toll-rises-to-32-159-wounded-so-far-510981">Also read |&nbsp;Libya clashes: Death toll rises to 32, 159 wounded so far</a>

Armed local groups later took control of all economic resources in an effort to create chaos. However, in 2014, another parallel group was formed when the same year battle for Tripoli began and later acknowledged Khalifa Haftar as the leader. Later, in 2019, the UN-backed agreement led to an internationally recognised government but eastern forces, or Haftar’s force rejected it and attacked the capital. On the contrary, to support the Tripoli government, western groups banded together and were able to attack in 2020 with the help of Turkey, leading to ceasefires.

UN later made another peace agreement. The PM Abdulamid al-Ddeibah was assigned to oversee the elections in 2021. As there were no agreements on election rules, the process broke down.

Eastern Libya deemed Ddeibah’s administration and appointed a new head Fathi Bashagha. The former leader refused to transfer powers.

The western forces saw Bashagha as a chance of victory and united with Haftar’s eastern alliance. After being appointed, Bashagha was blocked by pro-Ddeibah while entering Tripoli. He made another attempt in May but was stopped again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-clashes-between-rival-group-rock-capital-510727">Also read |&nbsp;Libya: Clashes between rival armed groups rock capital Tripoli</a>

As months went by alliances and collation clashed encroaching each other’s territories. Pro-Bashagha started waging attacks when the fight broke out in an attempt to make him in charge of the capital.

Politicians have suggested making another administration. A permanent resolution to the country’s disputes appears to be distant.

A nation of nearly seven million people is still concerned that whatever the outcome of the upcoming rounds of discussions and positions will be, it would be followed by disputes.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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<o:p></o:p>

The violent clash between two opposing militia groups in Tripoli on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 people and injured 159, bringing back violence to the Libyan city.

The violent clash between two opposing militia groups in Tripoli on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 people and injured 159, bringing back violence to the Libyan city. The two competing administrations - one located in the capital and the other authorised by a parliament in the country's east - are fighting for control over the North African country and its oil and trade resources. Videos shared online showed dozens of cars and buildings damaged. Roads were reopened. However, after hours of raging violence, the city was back to normal. The north African country has been in turmoil since Muammar Gaddafi was ousted and later murdered in 2011. The country is being contested by two regimes and is awaiting elections. The general election was to happen last year but got delayed due to clashes. Also read | Libya clashes: Death toll rises to 32, 159 wounded so far Armed local groups later took control of all economic resources in an effort to create chaos. However, in 2014, another parallel group was formed when the same year battle for Tripoli began and later acknowledged Khalifa Haftar as the leader. Later, in 2019, the UN-backed agreement led to an internationally recognised government but eastern forces, or Haftar’s force rejected it and attacked the capital. On the contrary, to support the Tripoli government, western groups banded together and were able to attack in 2020 with the help of Turkey, leading to ceasefires. UN later made another peace agreement. The PM Abdulamid al-Ddeibah was assigned to oversee the elections in 2021. As there were no agreements on election rules, the process broke down. Eastern Libya deemed Ddeibah’s administration and appointed a new head Fathi Bashagha. The former leader refused to transfer powers. The western forces saw Bashagha as a chance of victory and united with Haftar’s eastern alliance. After being appointed, Bashagha was blocked by pro-Ddeibah while entering Tripoli. He made another attempt in May but was stopped again. Also read | Libya: Clashes between rival armed groups rock capital Tripoli As months went by alliances and collation clashed encroaching each other’s territories. Pro-Bashagha started waging attacks when the fight broke out in an attempt to make him in charge of the capital. Politicians have suggested making another administration. A permanent resolution to the country’s disputes appears to be distant. A nation of nearly seven million people is still concerned that whatever the outcome of the upcoming rounds of discussions and positions will be, it would be followed by disputes. (With inputs from agencies)

Libya clashes: Everything you need to know about the disputes in the country

Libya crisis: Why did deadly battles erupt across Tripoli?

For 2 years Libya has enjoyed a period of relative calm but peace was destroyed on Saturday when clashes erupted between the buckets of the rival governments. At least about 23 people being killed in Tripoli, the capital of Libya, at about 140 others have been injured.

Clashes erupt between Libya's rival governments; at least 23 killed, 140 injured

The violent clashes between two rival militia groups ended up claiming 23 lives and injuring 140 others in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, according to the country’s Ministry of Health. The Libyan government said on its official Facebook page that the conflicts between the two groups "were triggered by a military group firing randomly at a convoy passing in the Zawia Street area, while armed groups were gathering at the 27th gate west of Tripoli and the Jebs Gate south of Tripoli."

Libya has been a hotbed for conflict since the uprising against dictator Moammar Gadhafi back in 2011 and although the Government of National Unity is formed in 2021 to improve the situation, conflicts continue in different parts of the country among army groups with different ideologies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-hydrogen-leakage-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-ukraine-510772" hreflang="en">Risk of hydrogen leakage at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant: Ukraine</a>

The main reason behind the conflicts has been the power struggle between armed groups as the country remains split. While the head of GNU – Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh – is backed by the United Nations, a rival government is headed by Fathi Bashagha in the eastern side of Libya.

According to CNN, the clashes in Tripoli caused severe damage to property as well and videos circulating on social media showed two sides use heavy artillery including rocket launchers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-to-carry-out-risk-assessment-of-documents-from-mar-a-lago-raid-510773" hreflang="en">US intelligence to carry out risk assessment of documents from Mar-a-Lago raid</a>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres requested for "immediate cessation to the violence”.

"(The secretary-general) urges the Libyan parties to engage in a genuine dialogue to address the ongoing political impasse and not to use force to resolve their differences. He further calls on the parties to protect civilians and refrain from taking any actions that could escalate tensions and deepen divisions," Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman for the secretary-general told AFP.

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The violent clashes between two rival militia groups ended up claiming 23 lives and injuring 140 others in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, according to the country’s Ministry of Health.

The violent clashes between two rival militia groups ended up claiming 23 lives and injuring 140 others in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, according to the country’s Ministry of Health. The Libyan government said on its official Facebook page that the conflicts between the two groups "were triggered by a military group firing randomly at a convoy passing in the Zawia Street area, while armed groups were gathering at the 27th gate west of Tripoli and the Jebs Gate south of Tripoli." Libya has been a hotbed for conflict since the uprising against dictator Moammar Gadhafi back in 2011 and although the Government of National Unity is formed in 2021 to improve the situation, conflicts continue in different parts of the country among army groups with different ideologies. Also read | Risk of hydrogen leakage at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant: Ukraine The main reason behind the conflicts has been the power struggle between armed groups as the country remains split. While the head of GNU – Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh – is backed by the United Nations, a rival government is headed by Fathi Bashagha in the eastern side of Libya. According to CNN, the clashes in Tripoli caused severe damage to property as well and videos circulating on social media showed two sides use heavy artillery including rocket launchers. Also read | US intelligence to carry out risk assessment of documents from Mar-a-Lago raid UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres requested for "immediate cessation to the violence”. "(The secretary-general) urges the Libyan parties to engage in a genuine dialogue to address the ongoing political impasse and not to use force to resolve their differences. He further calls on the parties to protect civilians and refrain from taking any actions that could escalate tensions and deepen divisions," Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman for the secretary-general told AFP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

At least 23 dead, 140 injured as rival armed groups clash in Libya

Clashes and gunfire between rival armed groups rocked Libyan capital Tripoli on Saturday (August 27). At least one person has been killed and fears of an all-out conflict have risen in the country amid political crisis. The fighting followed months of tensions between &nbsp;two administrations vying for control of the North African country and its vast oil resources

Small arms fire and explosions rocked several districts of Tripoli overnight and into Saturday, when smoke could be seen rising from damaged buildings.

Rival administrations exchanged blame for the violence. Videos posted online showed burnt cars and buildings that were ridden with bullet holes. A mosque and a health clinic were seen to be on fire.

United Nations' Libya mission has appealed for 'an immediate cessation of hostilities &nbsp;citing "ongoing armed clashes including indiscriminate medium and heavy shelling in civilian-populated neighbourhoods". The UN said that the clashes had damaged hospitals.

The US embassy in Libya said it was "very concerned" about the clashes.

Oussama Ali, a spokesman for Tripoli's ambulance service, told Al-Ahrar television that an unknown number of civilians had been wounded but that his service was "having difficulties moving around".

Local media reported fatalities but no official toll has been released.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Clashes and gunfire between rival armed groups rocked Libyan capital Tripoli on Saturday (August 27). At least one person has been killed and fears of an all-out conflict have risen in the country amid political crisis.

Clashes and gunfire between rival armed groups rocked Libyan capital Tripoli on Saturday (August 27). At least one person has been killed and fears of an all-out conflict have risen in the country amid political crisis. The fighting followed months of tensions between two administrations vying for control of the North African country and its vast oil resources Small arms fire and explosions rocked several districts of Tripoli overnight and into Saturday, when smoke could be seen rising from damaged buildings. Rival administrations exchanged blame for the violence. Videos posted online showed burnt cars and buildings that were ridden with bullet holes. A mosque and a health clinic were seen to be on fire. United Nations' Libya mission has appealed for 'an immediate cessation of hostilities citing "ongoing armed clashes including indiscriminate medium and heavy shelling in civilian-populated neighbourhoods". The UN said that the clashes had damaged hospitals. The US embassy in Libya said it was "very concerned" about the clashes. Oussama Ali, a spokesman for Tripoli's ambulance service, told Al-Ahrar television that an unknown number of civilians had been wounded but that his service was "having difficulties moving around". Local media reported fatalities but no official toll has been released. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Libya: Clashes between rival armed groups rock capital Tripoli

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday (August 1) that a European Union (EU) drone is helping Libyan forces to intercept boats of migrants in the Mediterranean Sea who are then subjected to "arbitrary detention and abuse". HRW said that the drone is operated from Malta, an EU member. It detects the boats leaving Libya and European border agency Frontex then passes the information on to the Libyan coast guard.

"Frontex claims the surveillance is to aid rescue, but the information facilitates interceptions and returns to Libya ... (despite) overwhelming evidence of torture and exploitation of migrants and refugees in Libya," HRW said in a statement.

Libya itself is war-torn. It is a launchpad for people fleeing from violence further south in&nbsp;Africa continent. These peole attempt to seek refuge in Europe.

HRW said Frontex's drone appeared to have helped Libyan forces intercept a boat in international waters, without informing nearby rescuers.

It is now investigating how "the shift from sea to air surveillance contributes to the cycle of extreme abuse in Libya"

HRW is a New York-based rights group. It said that last year, some 32,450 people were intercepted by Libyan forces. These people then faced abuse.

United Nations experts have said acts of "murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment (and) rape" against detained migrants in Libya may amount to crimes against humanity.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday (August 1) that a European Union (EU) drone is helping Libyan forces to intercept boats of migrants in the Mediterranean Sea who are then subjected to "arbitrary detention and abuse".

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday (August 1) that a European Union (EU) drone is helping Libyan forces to intercept boats of migrants in the Mediterranean Sea who are then subjected to "arbitrary detention and abuse". HRW said that the drone is operated from Malta, an EU member. It detects the boats leaving Libya and European border agency Frontex then passes the information on to the Libyan coast guard. "Frontex claims the surveillance is to aid rescue, but the information facilitates interceptions and returns to Libya ... (despite) overwhelming evidence of torture and exploitation of migrants and refugees in Libya," HRW said in a statement. Libya itself is war-torn. It is a launchpad for people fleeing from violence further south in Africa continent. These peole attempt to seek refuge in Europe. HRW said Frontex's drone appeared to have helped Libyan forces intercept a boat in international waters, without informing nearby rescuers. It is now investigating how "the shift from sea to air surveillance contributes to the cycle of extreme abuse in Libya" HRW is a New York-based rights group. It said that last year, some 32,450 people were intercepted by Libyan forces. These people then faced abuse. United Nations experts have said acts of "murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment (and) rape" against detained migrants in Libya may amount to crimes against humanity. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

EU drone helping Libya send migrants to 'abuse': HRW

In pics | History of parliament attacks

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Oil prices fell in early Asian trade on Monday, paring gains from the previous session. Oil supply remained tight amid lower OPEC output, unrest in Libya and sanctions on Russia.

Oil prices slip as recession fears rumble on

Protesters in Libya accusing the government of corruption stormed the parliament building. Protesters are demanding fresh elections.

Libyans step up anti-govt campaign over the rising cost of living

In pics: Protesters storm and set fire to Libyan parliament in Tobruk

Protesters in Libya accusing the government of corruption set fire to parts of Libya's parliament. Protesters are demanding fresh elections.

Protesters set fire to parts of Libya's parliament while staging demonstrations

The UN&nbsp;Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year.

The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.'&nbsp;The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN&nbsp;Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

Russia's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict.

However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods.

Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea.

In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes

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Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips.

Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers.

In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-renew-two-month-truce-un-484427">Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN</a>

His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.

An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister.&nbsp;

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The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The UN Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorisation for countries and regional organisations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the UN Arms embargo on the troubled north African nation. The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorisation for inspections for a year. The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for 'peace.' The EU said at the start that it would have as its core task the implementation of the UN Arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict. However, this never happened, he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods. Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea. In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said. Watch | Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips. Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a UN-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers. In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli. Also read | Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the UN-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries. An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were cancelled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN extends searches on high seas off Libya for illegal arms

Clashes erupted in Libya's capital after the parliament appointed Prime Minister Fathi Bashagha attempted to take over the government. Now, Bashagha entered Tripoli overnight after two months of a stalemate between the rival administrations.

Parliament-backed Libya PM Fathi Bashagha leaves capital after clashes

Libyan Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbeibah's car was targeted by gunfire overnight, local media reported, without specifying whether he had been inside.

The reports were not confirmed by officials.

The prime minister's social media feeds had published nothing on the subject, and spokesman Mohamed Hamouda did not respond to several attempts by AFP to contact him.

A police official told AFP on condition of anonymity that security services had received "no indication of gunfire in Tripoli".

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The news came as the wartorn country's parliament, based in eastern Libya hundreds of miles (kilometres) from the capital, prepared to vote on a replacement for Dbeibah.

The premier, who had a mandate to lead the country to elections set for December last year but which were ultimately abandoned, has said he will only cede power to an elected government.

Hours before the reported shooting, Dbeibah had met dozens of supporters who had gathered at Martyrs' Square in Tripoli to protest against the parliament's attempts to remove him.

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Libya has been torn apart by regional, tribal and ideological divisions since the 2011 revolt that toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi.&nbsp;

A landmark ceasefire in late 2020 had cleared the way for&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations-led efforts to bring an end to a decade of violence.

Dbeibah's unity government took office in early 2021 but when December 24 elections were cancelled amid deep divisions over their legal basis and several controversial candidates, his rivals charged that his mandate had ended.

The push to remove him has triggered fears of a return to east-west divisions and parallel governments.&nbsp;

Libyan Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbeibah's car was targeted by gunfire overnight, local media reported, without specifying whether he had been inside. The reports were not confirmed by officials.

Libyan Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbeibah's car was targeted by gunfire overnight, local media reported, without specifying whether he had been inside. The reports were not confirmed by officials. The prime minister's social media feeds had published nothing on the subject, and spokesman Mohamed Hamouda did not respond to several attempts by AFP to contact him. A police official told AFP on condition of anonymity that security services had received "no indication of gunfire in Tripoli". Also read | Ultimatums, threats from West on Ukraine won’t work against Russia, says foreign minister The news came as the wartorn country's parliament, based in eastern Libya hundreds of miles (kilometres) from the capital, prepared to vote on a replacement for Dbeibah. The premier, who had a mandate to lead the country to elections set for December last year but which were ultimately abandoned, has said he will only cede power to an elected government. Hours before the reported shooting, Dbeibah had met dozens of supporters who had gathered at Martyrs' Square in Tripoli to protest against the parliament's attempts to remove him. Also read | Anti-jewish hate incidents hit new record high in UK: Report Libya has been torn apart by regional, tribal and ideological divisions since the 2011 revolt that toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi. A landmark ceasefire in late 2020 had cleared the way for United Nations-led efforts to bring an end to a decade of violence. Dbeibah's unity government took office in early 2021 but when December 24 elections were cancelled amid deep divisions over their legal basis and several controversial candidates, his rivals charged that his mandate had ended. The push to remove him has triggered fears of a return to east-west divisions and parallel governments.

Libya media report shooting targeting PM's car

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls.&nbsp;

The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework.

On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage.

That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24.

The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions.

The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors".

The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969.

It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. 
The parliament has yet to debate the proposals.

Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday.

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework. On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage. That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24. The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions. The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors". The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969. It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. The parliament has yet to debate the proposals. Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament refuses to declare new date for delayed elections

Bodies of at least 28 Europe-bound refugees are washed up on the country's western coast after their boat capsized in the sea.

At least 28 migrants drown in Libya boat mishap

Libyan parliament on Friday said that presidential elections would not go ahead. This has created fresh political instability in a country that has been ravaged by wars since erstwhile dictator Muammar Gaddafi was deposed in a NATO-backed uprising in 2011. Postponement of elections may bring internationally-backed peace process into trouble and doubts may be raised on the fate of the interim government.

Libya's electoral commission proposed postponement of the elections by a month. The delay was widely expected as there were disputes over rules of the election including eligibility of several divisive candidates.

Disagreements showed the limitations of a winner-takes-all presidential vote involving candidates viewed as unacceptable in large parts of the country, including the son of the late ruler Muammar Gaddafi and a military leader who assaulted Tripoli.

At stake is a peace process that had been seen as the best hope in years of bringing an end to the decade of chaos and violence that has engulfed Libya since a NATO-backed uprising ousted Gaddafi in 2011.

Large numbers of Libyans had already registered for voting cards for the election in what politicians on all sides in Libya have said is a sign of strong popular desire for a vote. The U.S. ambassador on Wednesday said work towards elections should remain a priority.

However, with mobilisations in Tripoli and other western areas by armed groups, the collapse of the electoral process risks aggravating local disputes and triggering a new round of fighting.

Disputes over the path forward could also undo the wider U.N.-backed peace process between Libya's main eastern and western camps that have maintained a ceasefire since last year.

Renewed conflict could also lead to more frequent or extensive shutdowns in oil output by armed groups, hitting state finances. A group this week closed down three major fields.

Some figures in the east have warned of a new breakaway government that would return Libya to the division between warring administrations that lasted from the last election in 2014 until the installation of the current interim government.

Turkey and regional adversaries that backed opposing sides in Libya have improved relations recently, easing the risk they will drive a return to war through local proxies, analysts say.

(With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament on Friday said that presidential elections would not go ahead. This has created fresh political instability in a country that has been ravaged by wars since erstwhile dictator Muammar Gaddafi was deposed in a NATO-backed uprising in 2011.

Libyan parliament on Friday said that presidential elections would not go ahead. This has created fresh political instability in a country that has been ravaged by wars since erstwhile dictator Muammar Gaddafi was deposed in a NATO-backed uprising in 2011. Postponement of elections may bring internationally-backed peace process into trouble and doubts may be raised on the fate of the interim government. Libya's electoral commission proposed postponement of the elections by a month. The delay was widely expected as there were disputes over rules of the election including eligibility of several divisive candidates. Disagreements showed the limitations of a winner-takes-all presidential vote involving candidates viewed as unacceptable in large parts of the country, including the son of the late ruler Muammar Gaddafi and a military leader who assaulted Tripoli. At stake is a peace process that had been seen as the best hope in years of bringing an end to the decade of chaos and violence that has engulfed Libya since a NATO-backed uprising ousted Gaddafi in 2011. Large numbers of Libyans had already registered for voting cards for the election in what politicians on all sides in Libya have said is a sign of strong popular desire for a vote. The U.S. ambassador on Wednesday said work towards elections should remain a priority. However, with mobilisations in Tripoli and other western areas by armed groups, the collapse of the electoral process risks aggravating local disputes and triggering a new round of fighting. Disputes over the path forward could also undo the wider U.N.-backed peace process between Libya's main eastern and western camps that have maintained a ceasefire since last year. Renewed conflict could also lead to more frequent or extensive shutdowns in oil output by armed groups, hitting state finances. A group this week closed down three major fields. Some figures in the east have warned of a new breakaway government that would return Libya to the division between warring administrations that lasted from the last election in 2014 until the installation of the current interim government. Turkey and regional adversaries that backed opposing sides in Libya have improved relations recently, easing the risk they will drive a return to war through local proxies, analysts say. (With inputs from agencies)

Libya: Presidential elections postponed, uncertainty prevails

Refuge for flamingos and turtles, the Libyan island of Farwa is threatened by pollution, illegal and intensive fishing. Environmental activists, who are trying to save it, have warned that Libya's wildfire treasure island is at risk of ruin.

Libya's wildlife treasure island at risk of ruin

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