Libya has an estimated 654,000 migrants – more than 48,000 of them registered asylum seekers or refugees - many of them living in cramped conditions with little access to healthcare. Restrictions on movement are driving them further into hardship.

Libyan migrants trapped between war and COVID-19

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

"We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-impact-is-covid-19-having-on-war-torn-areas-like-yemen-syria-libya-290652">Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya</a>

"We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany.

The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce.&nbsp;

While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials. "We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said. Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya "We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany. The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce. While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

Europe calls for humanitarian truce in Libya

What impact is COVID-19 having on war-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya

The Scottish Criminal Case Review Commission (SCCRC) has referred to the Lockerbie bombing case to the High Court allowing the man convicted for the incident to file a fresh appeal.

The London to New York Pan Am flight 103 was blown up in mid-air over the Scottish town of Lockerbie in December 1988 killing all 270 people on board, mostly American.

The Scottish commission said its decision was based after it conducted a review of new material which allowed the family of the late Abdel Basset al-Megrahi to appeal the conviction.

Abdel Basset al-Megrahi was the only person convicted of the crime. Abdel Basset died in 2012 after being released three years earlier by Scotland's government on compassionate grounds after being diagnosed with cancer.

Megrahi was found guilty of the bombing in 2001 and was jailed for life. Megrahi, however, always claimed to be innocent. US and British investigators had indicted Megrahi and Al Amin Khalifa Fhimah on murder charge and accused them of being Libyan intelligence officers.

The duo was formally charged in 1999 at The Hague after Libya handed them over to Dutch authorities. Fhimah was found not guilty and was sent home.

The Scottish Criminal Case Review Commission (SCCRC) has referred to the Lockerbie bombing case to the High Court allowing the man convicted for the incident to file a fresh appeal.

The Scottish Criminal Case Review Commission (SCCRC) has referred to the Lockerbie bombing case to the High Court allowing the man convicted for the incident to file a fresh appeal. The London to New York Pan Am flight 103 was blown up in mid-air over the Scottish town of Lockerbie in December 1988 killing all 270 people on board, mostly American. The Scottish commission said its decision was based after it conducted a review of new material which allowed the family of the late Abdel Basset al-Megrahi to appeal the conviction. Abdel Basset al-Megrahi was the only person convicted of the crime. Abdel Basset died in 2012 after being released three years earlier by Scotland's government on compassionate grounds after being diagnosed with cancer. Megrahi was found guilty of the bombing in 2001 and was jailed for life. Megrahi, however, always claimed to be innocent. US and British investigators had indicted Megrahi and Al Amin Khalifa Fhimah on murder charge and accused them of being Libyan intelligence officers. The duo was formally charged in 1999 at The Hague after Libya handed them over to Dutch authorities. Fhimah was found not guilty and was sent home.

In relief to family, Scottish body refers Lockerbie bombing case for appeal

The two warring sides in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-may-face-financial-crisis-due-to-oil-blockade-by-rival-general-khalifa-haftar-280974">Libya</a> suspended their participation in the UN-sponsored peace talks hoping to end the months-long crisis.

While the rival Libyan politicians had met on Wednesday for the first round of the UN-sponsored political talks in Geneva aimed at ending the latest round of fighting over the country’s capital Tripoli, just hours later, the Western-backed Tripoli government sent a letter to the UN demanding that talks be suspended until “concrete progress is made” in ongoing military negotiations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-news-libya-arms-embargo-has-become-a-joke-un-281003">Also Read: Libya arms embargo has become a joke: UN</a>

The spokesperson for the rival Tobruk-based government under Khalifa Haftar also requested a postponement.

The move came despite assurances from the UN that negotiations would still go ahead.

The eastern side or the Tobruk based government that rivals the internationally recognised administration of Tripoli also said that it could not promise to lift an oil blockade as that was against the wishes of the local tribesmen.

Power in Libya is divided between two rival governments, in the east and west of the country but in the wake of intensified international efforts, the UN has launched three parallel tracks of negotiations to push a ceasefire and resolve the crisis in Libya.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-erdogan-says-russia-managing-libya-war-at-highest-level-280933">Also Read: Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level'&nbsp;</a>

The declared ceasefire deal, now under review by Libya’s competing leaders addresses a few things including the return of thousands of displaced civilians to Tripoli but it makes no mention of key points of contention, such as the withdrawal of eastern-based forces or the demobilization of militias allied with the UN-supported Tripoli government.

Meanwhile, Russia on Wednesday accused Turkey of helping foreign fighters cross into Libya.

Since April, the western-backed Tripoli government has been clashing with forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar, who is aligned with a rival administration based in the country's east and backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Russia, making it a protracted war.

The two warring sides in Libya suspended their participation in the UN-sponsored peace talks hoping to end the months-long crisis. While the rival Libyan politicians had met on Wednesday for the first round of the UN-sponsored political talks in Geneva aimed at ending the latest round of fighting over the country’s capital Tripoli, just hours later, the Western-backed Tripoli government sent a letter to the UN demanding that talks be suspended until “concrete progress is made” in ongoing military negotiations.

The two warring sides in Libya suspended their participation in the UN-sponsored peace talks hoping to end the months-long crisis. While the rival Libyan politicians had met on Wednesday for the first round of the UN-sponsored political talks in Geneva aimed at ending the latest round of fighting over the country’s capital Tripoli, just hours later, the Western-backed Tripoli government sent a letter to the UN demanding that talks be suspended until “concrete progress is made” in ongoing military negotiations. Also Read: Libya arms embargo has become a joke: UN The spokesperson for the rival Tobruk-based government under Khalifa Haftar also requested a postponement. The move came despite assurances from the UN that negotiations would still go ahead. The eastern side or the Tobruk based government that rivals the internationally recognised administration of Tripoli also said that it could not promise to lift an oil blockade as that was against the wishes of the local tribesmen. Power in Libya is divided between two rival governments, in the east and west of the country but in the wake of intensified international efforts, the UN has launched three parallel tracks of negotiations to push a ceasefire and resolve the crisis in Libya. Also Read: Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level' The declared ceasefire deal, now under review by Libya’s competing leaders addresses a few things including the return of thousands of displaced civilians to Tripoli but it makes no mention of key points of contention, such as the withdrawal of eastern-based forces or the demobilization of militias allied with the UN-supported Tripoli government. Meanwhile, Russia on Wednesday accused Turkey of helping foreign fighters cross into Libya. Since April, the western-backed Tripoli government has been clashing with forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar, who is aligned with a rival administration based in the country's east and backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Russia, making it a protracted war.

Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters

UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said that arms embargo has become a joke in Libya as the world body called members to "step up".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-may-face-financial-crisis-due-to-oil-blockade-by-rival-general-khalifa-haftar-280974">Also Read:&nbsp;Libya may face financial crisis due to oil blockade by Khalifa Haftar</a>

"The arms embargo has become a joke, we all really need to step up," UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said, adding, "It's complicated because there are violations by land, sea and air, but it needs to be monitored and there needs to be accountability."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/libya-to-face-catastrophic-financial-crisis-this-year-280886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the UN, several countries have broken the arms embargo. The world body had earlier named Turkey, Egypt and UAE as nations who have earlier broken the embargo.

Haftar's Libyan National Army along with other groups have been fighting for the control of Libya since last year with the UAE and Egpyt reportedly backing LNA and internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) being backed by Turkey.

Russia, France too support the Haftar forces. During the foreign ministers' conference several countries called the arms embagro violations "deplorable" while urging the warring factions to take part in a meeting to negotiate a ceasefire.

The Libyan rivals are scheduled to hold a political dialogue&nbsp;on February 26 with Rome set to host the meeting under the supervision of the United Nations.

UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said that arms embargo has become a joke in Libya as the world body called members to "step up". Also Read: Libya may face financial crisis due to oil blockade by Khalifa Haftar "The arms embargo has become a joke, we all really need to step up," UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said, adding, "It's complicated because there are violations by land, sea and air, but it needs to be monitored and there needs to be accountability.

UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said that arms embargo has become a joke in Libya as the world body called members to "step up". Also Read: Libya may face financial crisis due to oil blockade by Khalifa Haftar "The arms embargo has become a joke, we all really need to step up," UN Deputy Special Representative to Libya Stephanie Williams said, adding, "It's complicated because there are violations by land, sea and air, but it needs to be monitored and there needs to be accountability." Watch Video: According to the UN, several countries have broken the arms embargo. The world body had earlier named Turkey, Egypt and UAE as nations who have earlier broken the embargo. Haftar's Libyan National Army along with other groups have been fighting for the control of Libya since last year with the UAE and Egpyt reportedly backing LNA and internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) being backed by Turkey. Russia, France too support the Haftar forces. During the foreign ministers' conference several countries called the arms embagro violations "deplorable" while urging the warring factions to take part in a meeting to negotiate a ceasefire. The Libyan rivals are scheduled to hold a political dialogue on February 26 with Rome set to host the meeting under the supervision of the United Nations.

Libya arms embargo has become a joke: UN

Libya to face a 'Catastrophic' financial crisis this year because of a blockade of oil terminals and oil fields by Libyan General Khalifa Haftar.

Libya to face 'Catastrophic' financial crisis this year

The head of Libya's internationally recognised government has now said that the country may face a financial crisis in 2020 because of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/libyan-state-oil-firm-says-output-down-75-due-to-blockade-276549">blockade of oil terminals and fields by rival general Khalifa Haftar</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-erdogan-says-russia-managing-libya-war-at-highest-level-280933">Libya's oil output</a> has fallen sharply since January 18 when the blockade started.

Oil is the main source of national income for the north African country.

With the closure of the eastern Libyan oil ports, Haftar's move has cut Libya's crude output by half.

Before the blockade, Libya was producing at least 1.2 million barrels per day.

The crude output has now dropped to almost a hundred and sixty thousand barrels per day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-states-that-haftar-cannot-be-expected-to-respect-libya-truce-276633">Also read: Erdogan states that Haftar cannot be expected to respect Libya truce</a>

Over 85 per cent of Libya's crude exports go to Europe, while around 32 per cent of Libyan oil goes to Italy, 14 per cent to Germany, 10 per cent to China and France and 5 per cent to the united states.

Haftar's position has now been strengthened as the oil fields remain shut.

The eastern-commander had&nbsp;accused the Tripoli-based government of using oil revenues to fund foreign fighters.

His comes as a power struggle between Sarraj's GNA based in Tripoli and a parallel administration backed by Haftar's self-styled Libyan national army in the east has left the country divided.

Both the forces have been fighting since April to gain control of the capital.

Fighting has continued despite calls for a truce by both Russia and Turkey and an international peace summit aimed at brokering peace.

The head of Libya's internationally recognised government has now said that the country may face a financial crisis in 2020 because of a blockade of oil terminals and fields by rival general Khalifa Haftar.

The head of Libya's internationally recognised government has now said that the country may face a financial crisis in 2020 because of a blockade of oil terminals and fields by rival general Khalifa Haftar. Libya's oil output has fallen sharply since January 18 when the blockade started. Oil is the main source of national income for the north African country. With the closure of the eastern Libyan oil ports, Haftar's move has cut Libya's crude output by half. Before the blockade, Libya was producing at least 1.2 million barrels per day. The crude output has now dropped to almost a hundred and sixty thousand barrels per day. Also read: Erdogan states that Haftar cannot be expected to respect Libya truce Over 85 per cent of Libya's crude exports go to Europe, while around 32 per cent of Libyan oil goes to Italy, 14 per cent to Germany, 10 per cent to China and France and 5 per cent to the united states. Haftar's position has now been strengthened as the oil fields remain shut. The eastern-commander had accused the Tripoli-based government of using oil revenues to fund foreign fighters. His comes as a power struggle between Sarraj's GNA based in Tripoli and a parallel administration backed by Haftar's self-styled Libyan national army in the east has left the country divided. Both the forces have been fighting since April to gain control of the capital. Fighting has continued despite calls for a truce by both Russia and Turkey and an international peace summit aimed at brokering peace.

Libya may face financial crisis due to oil blockade by rival general Khalifa Haftar

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount. "Russia is managing the war there right now at the highest level," Erdogan said, according to the Hurriyet daily. Turkey and Russia are currently engaged in a war of words over Syria where the two countries support opposing sides. Likewise in Libya, Ankara supports the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in Tripoli while Russia backs military strongman Khalifa Haftar. Watch: 'Turkey will make Syria to pay heavy price' vows Erdogan The president has repeated the accusation that Russian security company Wagner is supporting Haftar despite Moscow's denials. "They are presently managing Wagner," Erdogan told Turkish journalists on board his plane after a visit to Pakistan this week. "Yet they still stand up and say, 'there's no link'," he added. The Wagner Group is a shadowy private security firm and thousands of its security contractors are believed to be in foreign conflicts from Syria to Ukraine to the Central African Republic. Also Read: Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid Erdogan insisted Turkey would continue to support the GNA as part of a security deal signed late last year. He also hit out at the West over backing Haftar without directly naming any country. "The West still supports this man.... (He) is given arms, ammunition and money." Earlier on Saturday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu criticised the "very dangerous" meddling by some Gulf countries during the Munich Security Conference. "Those countries believe that democracy in one Arab country or the region is the biggest threat for their own regime," the top Turkish diplomat added.

Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level'

The UN Security Council endorsed a 55-point road map for ending the war in Libya on February 12 and condemned the recent increase in violence in the oil-rich North African country. The vote on the British-drafted resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining even though Russian President Vladimir Putin was one of the 12 leaders who agreed to the plan at a conference in Berlin on January 19. Watch report

UN votes to endorse road map to end war in Libya

Heads of state and government officials from across Africa have gathered in Ethiopia's capital for talks primarily focused on ways to end to regional violence, including the conflicts in South Sudan and Libya. The 33rd African Union (AU) summit, which opened on Sunday in Addis Ababa, is being held under the theme "Silencing the Guns: Creating conducive conditions for Africa's development".

WION Dispatch: AU leaders seek end to regional conflicts at 33rd African Union

Libya's oil production has plunged by around three-quarters since forces loyal to military strongman Khalifa Haftar launched a blockade a week ago, the National Oil Company announced Saturday.

The fall, from 1.2 million barrels a day to just over 320,000, has caused estimated losses of $256 million since the closure of major oil fields and ports in the east and south of the country, the NOC said in a statement.

Haftar began an offensive in April last year to seize the capital Tripoli from the UN-recognised Government of National Accord.

Pro-Haftar forces blockaded the main oil terminals in eastern Libya the day before a summit in Berlin on January 19 that called for the end of foreign interference in the conflict and a resumption of the peace process.

Exports were suspended at the ports of Brega, Ras Lanouf, Al-Sidra, Al-Hariga and Zweitina in the country's "oil crescent".&nbsp;

The NOC also denounced the closure of valves at a pumping station in the southwest, which shut down production the major fields of Al-Sharara and Al-Fil.

Libya's oil production has plunged by around three-quarters since forces loyal to military strongman Khalifa Haftar launched a blockade a week ago, the National Oil Company announced Saturday.

Libya's oil production has plunged by around three-quarters since forces loyal to military strongman Khalifa Haftar launched a blockade a week ago, the National Oil Company announced Saturday. The fall, from 1.2 million barrels a day to just over 320,000, has caused estimated losses of $256 million since the closure of major oil fields and ports in the east and south of the country, the NOC said in a statement. Haftar began an offensive in April last year to seize the capital Tripoli from the UN-recognised Government of National Accord. Pro-Haftar forces blockaded the main oil terminals in eastern Libya the day before a summit in Berlin on January 19 that called for the end of foreign interference in the conflict and a resumption of the peace process. Exports were suspended at the ports of Brega, Ras Lanouf, Al-Sidra, Al-Hariga and Zweitina in the country's "oil crescent". The NOC also denounced the closure of valves at a pumping station in the southwest, which shut down production the major fields of Al-Sharara and Al-Fil.

Libyan state oil firm says output down 75% due to blockade

The recent peace conference in Berlin fared better than most of the previous summits on Libya. But it failed to achieve its main target of brokering a ceasefire between the two warring factions in the North African country.

What happened in Berlin?

The Libyan rivals and their international backers came face to face at the United Nations-backed meet. World leaders agreed to an arms embargo on Libya whose civil war has intensified with foreign interference.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel pushed for a political solution but did not rule out a military intervention either. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the attendees have, for now, averted the war in Libya from escalating into a regional conflict.

However, countries directly involved in the fighting seemed to be at loggerheads.

Russia which backs commander Khalifa Haftar said that large-scale fighting in Libya has stopped while Turkey which supports the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) said that peace won’t come until a truce is agreed upon.

Stakes rose ahead of the summit with the closure of the Eastern Libyan oil ports that are under the renegade General’s control. With this, the country’s crude output has been cut by more than half.

However, there was little discussion on the issue in Berlin and the oil fields remain shut till date.

Who all Attended the Meet?

Fayez al-Seraj who heads the internationally-recognised GNA based in capital Tripoli and Eastern commander Khalifa Haftar who leads the Libyan National Army attended the summit. While their allies had one of one, the two adversaries did not meet each other.

Leaders of Russia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt which back Haftar were present at the meet. France and the US which are said to be close to the renegade general were also in attendance.

On Seraj’s side, the discussions were spearheaded by Turkey which has sent its troops to help the GNA fend off the LNA’s campaign to seize Tripoli. Libya’s former coloniser Italy which backs the UN-recognised government was also present at the meet.

Leaders of the European Union, Arab League and the African Union too played a key role in deliberations.

What is the Libyan Civil War?

The current conflict intensified when Haftar ordered his LNA troops to march towards capital Tripoli last April. While al-Seraj’s government commands a fraction of Libyan territory, much of the country and also its oil fields are controlled by Haftar.

What are Europe interests in Libya?

The conflict-ridden country is among the major oil producers of the world. Instability in Libya will lead to a rise in global oil prices. But that’s not the only thing that concerns the European powers.&nbsp;

There’s also the issue of refugees. Libya which lacks proper border checks has been the focal point for African and Mediterranean immigrants to enter Europe via sea.

Europe has for long been divided over the refugee crisis with Italy claiming that it has felt the maximum burnt of illegal immigration.

What is at stake for Libya’s warring parties?

Haftar cannot claim victory until he takes hold of capital Tripoli- the battle for which has drawn longer than he expected.&nbsp;

For al-Seraj’s GNA, it is more about survival. The rebel general is becoming more and more powerful and militia commanders in Tripoli fear that they will meet the same fate that Muammar Gadaffi met. The former dictator was captured and killed by rebels in 2011.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The recent peace conference in Berlin fared better than most of the previous summits on Libya. But it failed to achieve its main target of brokering a ceasefire between the two warring factions in the North African country.

The recent peace conference in Berlin fared better than most of the previous summits on Libya. But it failed to achieve its main target of brokering a ceasefire between the two warring factions in the North African country. What happened in Berlin? The Libyan rivals and their international backers came face to face at the United Nations-backed meet. World leaders agreed to an arms embargo on Libya whose civil war has intensified with foreign interference. German Chancellor Angela Merkel pushed for a political solution but did not rule out a military intervention either. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the attendees have, for now, averted the war in Libya from escalating into a regional conflict. However, countries directly involved in the fighting seemed to be at loggerheads. Russia which backs commander Khalifa Haftar said that large-scale fighting in Libya has stopped while Turkey which supports the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) said that peace won’t come until a truce is agreed upon. Stakes rose ahead of the summit with the closure of the Eastern Libyan oil ports that are under the renegade General’s control. With this, the country’s crude output has been cut by more than half. However, there was little discussion on the issue in Berlin and the oil fields remain shut till date. Who all Attended the Meet? Fayez al-Seraj who heads the internationally-recognised GNA based in capital Tripoli and Eastern commander Khalifa Haftar who leads the Libyan National Army attended the summit. While their allies had one of one, the two adversaries did not meet each other. Leaders of Russia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt which back Haftar were present at the meet. France and the US which are said to be close to the renegade general were also in attendance. On Seraj’s side, the discussions were spearheaded by Turkey which has sent its troops to help the GNA fend off the LNA’s campaign to seize Tripoli. Libya’s former coloniser Italy which backs the UN-recognised government was also present at the meet. Leaders of the European Union, Arab League and the African Union too played a key role in deliberations. What is the Libyan Civil War? The current conflict intensified when Haftar ordered his LNA troops to march towards capital Tripoli last April. While al-Seraj’s government commands a fraction of Libyan territory, much of the country and also its oil fields are controlled by Haftar. What are Europe interests in Libya? The conflict-ridden country is among the major oil producers of the world. Instability in Libya will lead to a rise in global oil prices. But that’s not the only thing that concerns the European powers. There’s also the issue of refugees. Libya which lacks proper border checks has been the focal point for African and Mediterranean immigrants to enter Europe via sea. Europe has for long been divided over the refugee crisis with Italy claiming that it has felt the maximum burnt of illegal immigration. What is at stake for Libya’s warring parties? Haftar cannot claim victory until he takes hold of capital Tripoli- the battle for which has drawn longer than he expected. For al-Seraj’s GNA, it is more about survival. The rebel general is becoming more and more powerful and militia commanders in Tripoli fear that they will meet the same fate that Muammar Gadaffi met. The former dictator was captured and killed by rebels in 2011. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There's a long road to peace in Libya

World leaders have agreed to UN arms embargo on Libya and to stop providing military support to the country's warring factions. However, the Berlin Summit failed to achieve its main goal of brokering a seize fire. Libya's warring factions and their allies met in Berlin in the first major international summit on the Libyan conflict in recent years. German chancellor Angela Merkel called for a political solution but she did not rule out military intervention in the North African countries civil war.

Libya peace summit in Berlin: World leaders agree on UN arms embargo

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">United Nations</a> envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon.

Oil export terminals across eastern and central Libya were shut on Friday by tribesmen allied to commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Khalifa Haftar</a>, whose Libya National Army (LNA) has been locked in a nine-month war with government forces over control of the capital, Tripoli.

Diplomats see the closures as a power play by the LNA aimed at ramping up pressure ahead of a conference on Sunday in Berlin where Germany wants to push for a lasting truce.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NOC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NOC</a> declares force majeure after LNA blockades oil exports from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brega?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brega</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RasLanuf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RasLanuf</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hariga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hariga</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zueitina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zueitina</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sidra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sidra</a> ports<a href="https://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm">https://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm</a> <a href="https://t.co/xJ1vRK0PrK">pic.twitter.com/xJ1vRK0PrK</a>
— National Oil Corporation المؤسسة الوطنية للنفط (@NOC_Libya) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOC_Libya/status/1218539981595205634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The National Oil Corp (NOC) declared force majeure on oil exports from the eastern ports of Brega, Ras Lanuf, Hariga, Zueitina, and Es Sider, saying the closures would result in the loss of 800,000 barrels (bpd) day in oil output.

UN&nbsp;envoy Ghassan Salame said the summit would likely discuss the closures to avoid them dragging on for weeks or months, like previous seizures of facilities.

Watch:&nbsp;Khalifa Haftar shuts down eastern oil ports in Libya

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"If the thing is not solved between today and tomorrow I expect the issue to be raised, yes," he told reporters&nbsp;in Berlin.

But some 600 tribesmen camping out in front of Zueitina port said they would keep the terminals shut until the east of the country was able to export its own oil, bypassing Tripoli.

"We will not reopen the terminals without any international guarantees," said Osman Saleh, a tribal leader, told reporters at a tent where tribesmen sat drinking tea and listening to defiant speeches.

Oil revenues are booked via NOC in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-take-part-in-libya-peace-conference-in-germany-274938">Tripoli</a> and benefit mainly the internationally recognized Tripoli-based government, although though some public servants in the east are also paid.

To get a bigger share the LNA has several times tried to sell oil on its own only to be stopped by the United Nations as this violates an embargo, diplomats say.

Salame said a fair distribution of oil revenues needed to be part of any peace settlement in Libya.

Production in Libya, which was plunged into chaos with the toppling of longtime leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ready-to-teach-a-lesson-to-haftar-if-libyan-forces-continue-attacks-274241">Muammar Gaddafi</a> in 2011, was estimated at 1.3 million bpd last week.

Salame said he hoped Haftar would be willing to consider extending a truce that has largely held for a week despite the two sides failing to sign a deal at indirect talks in Moscow mediated by Russia and Turkey on Monday.

There have been a series of failed conferences and negotiations to stabilize Libya. Haftar and Tripoli-based Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj are expected to be in Berlin for the summit, although the two are not expected to meet.

The war over Tripoli has been backed by foreign powers with the LNA supported by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-stands-by-revolutionary-guards-after-unrest-over-downed-plane-275015">United Arab Emirates</a>, Egypt, and most recently Russian mercenaries, and Turkey sending troops and fighters from Syria's civil war to help Serraj.

"I can confirm the arrival of fighters from Syria," Salame said, putting estimates at 1,000 to 2,000.

Salame said he had started the process of a new intra-Libyan dialogue between the rival parliaments in Tripoli and the east, an approach that has failed since 2017.

The United Nations envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon.

The United Nations envoy to Libya said on Saturday he hoped but "could not predict" whether eastern oil ports shut ahead of a Berlin summit aimed at reaching a truce in Libya would be reopened soon. Oil export terminals across eastern and central Libya were shut on Friday by tribesmen allied to commander Khalifa Haftar, whose Libya National Army (LNA) has been locked in a nine-month war with government forces over control of the capital, Tripoli. Diplomats see the closures as a power play by the LNA aimed at ramping up pressure ahead of a conference on Sunday in Berlin where Germany wants to push for a lasting truce. #NOC declares force majeure after LNA blockades oil exports from #Brega, #RasLanuf, #Hariga, #Zueitina and #Sidra portshttps://t.co/KlWp8JQLXm pic.twitter.com/xJ1vRK0PrK — National Oil Corporation المؤسسة الوطنية للنفط (@NOC_Libya) January 18, 2020 × The National Oil Corp (NOC) declared force majeure on oil exports from the eastern ports of Brega, Ras Lanuf, Hariga, Zueitina, and Es Sider, saying the closures would result in the loss of 800,000 barrels (bpd) day in oil output. UN envoy Ghassan Salame said the summit would likely discuss the closures to avoid them dragging on for weeks or months, like previous seizures of facilities. Watch: Khalifa Haftar shuts down eastern oil ports in Libya × "If the thing is not solved between today and tomorrow I expect the issue to be raised, yes," he told reporters in Berlin. But some 600 tribesmen camping out in front of Zueitina port said they would keep the terminals shut until the east of the country was able to export its own oil, bypassing Tripoli. "We will not reopen the terminals without any international guarantees," said Osman Saleh, a tribal leader, told reporters at a tent where tribesmen sat drinking tea and listening to defiant speeches. Oil revenues are booked via NOC in Tripoli and benefit mainly the internationally recognized Tripoli-based government, although though some public servants in the east are also paid. To get a bigger share the LNA has several times tried to sell oil on its own only to be stopped by the United Nations as this violates an embargo, diplomats say. Salame said a fair distribution of oil revenues needed to be part of any peace settlement in Libya. Production in Libya, which was plunged into chaos with the toppling of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, was estimated at 1.3 million bpd last week. Salame said he hoped Haftar would be willing to consider extending a truce that has largely held for a week despite the two sides failing to sign a deal at indirect talks in Moscow mediated by Russia and Turkey on Monday. There have been a series of failed conferences and negotiations to stabilize Libya. Haftar and Tripoli-based Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj are expected to be in Berlin for the summit, although the two are not expected to meet. The war over Tripoli has been backed by foreign powers with the LNA supported by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and most recently Russian mercenaries, and Turkey sending troops and fighters from Syria's civil war to help Serraj. "I can confirm the arrival of fighters from Syria," Salame said, putting estimates at 1,000 to 2,000. Salame said he had started the process of a new intra-Libyan dialogue between the rival parliaments in Tripoli and the east, an approach that has failed since 2017.

UN envoy to Libya hopes but 'cannot predict' the reopening of Libya oil ports

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Tripoli</a> and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government.

As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-haftar-ready-to-abide-by-ongoing-ceasefire-in-libya-germany-274749">Khalifa Haftar</a>, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week.

Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders.

Haftar, a former general from the regime of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Muammar Gaddafi</a> toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin.

He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed.

Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues.

Watch:&nbsp;US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit

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The one-day summit, which will also bring together US&nbsp;Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj.

Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks.

Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support.

That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN&nbsp;official said on Saturday.

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In <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Berlin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Berlin</a> to engage world leaders and <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a> for serving as host and leading this important initiative. <a href="https://t.co/W8tjlO9R45">pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45</a>
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1218663923823628288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US&nbsp;state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo.

Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added.

Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war.

"That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output.

Libyan rival camps and their foreign backers will attend a summit in Berlin on Sunday to discuss ways to end a proxy war over the capital Tripoli and the oil producer, which has displaced 140,000 and now more than halved the country's crude output. Germany and the United Nations hope to persuade Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push their opposing camps to agree on a lasting truce in Tripoli, home to the internationally recognized government. As with previous failed attempts, center stage of the one-day meeting will be occupied by eastern commander Khalifa Haftar, who in April started a campaign to take Tripoli. Western powers hope this time to put pressure on him to continue a ceasefire that has largely held for one week. Haftar on Monday walked out on a Russo-Turkish summit, in contrast with his rival Fayez al-Serraj, the internationally recognized prime minister, who signed a lasting truce proposal put forward to both leaders. Haftar, a former general from the regime of Muammar Gaddafi toppled in 2011, appeared confident this week when German foreign minister Heiko Maas visited him at his base outside Benghazi to ask him to come to Berlin. He leaned back in his chair while Maas was leaning towards him to make his peace pitch, a picture from the meeting showed. Haftar escalated the conflict on Friday when allied tribesmen shut down eastern oil ports, cutting oil production by 800,000 barrels a day. That will hit hard Tripoli, which benefits most from oil revenues. Watch: US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo reaches Berlin for summit × The one-day summit, which will also bring together US Secretary of States Mike Pompeo and European and Arab leaders, will not attempt to broker a power-sharing agreement between Haftar and Serraj. Instead, the focus is on a lasting ceasefire to restart talks. Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries, which helped him gain a bit on the Tripoli front. France has also given some support. That has prompted Turkey to rush to Serraj's rescue by sending troops to Tripoli. Up to 2,000 fighters from Syria's civil war have also joined the battle to defend the capital, a UN official said on Saturday. In #Berlin to engage world leaders and @UN officials to work toward ending hostilities in Libya. Thanks to #Germany for serving as host and leading this important initiative. pic.twitter.com/W8tjlO9R45 — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 18, 2020 × "I mean this is a region-wide conflict broadening, and looking increasingly like Syria which is why the whole international community is getting together in Germany," a senior US state department official told reporters travelling with Pompeo. Still, expectations were "moderate," the official added. Tarek Megerisi, a policy fellow with the North Africa and Middle East program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said there was no sign Haftar's backers were pushing him to stop the war. "That means that obtaining a commitment to maintain this forum where all interfering actors meet in the form of follow-up committees would likely be the most valuable output Germany could achieve," he said.

Libyan rival camps to discuss ways to end crisis with an international summit in Berlin later today

Libya has become a battleground for both local and regional aspirations, with foreign powers such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Russia jostling for influence.

Where does Libya post Gaddafi stand?

World leaders were poised to commit to ending all foreign meddling in Libya's war at a Berlin summit Sunday, but calls were growing for an international force to ensure that pledges are put into action.

The presidents of Russia, Turkey and France were among global chiefs at the talks held under the auspices of the United Nations, which wants foreign powers wielding influence in the region to stop interfering in the war -- be it through weapons, troops or financing.

Watch:

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-envoy-to-libya-hopes-but-cannot-predict-the-reopening-of-libya-oil-ports-275203">UN envoy to Libya hopes but 'cannot predict' the reopening of Libya oil ports</a>

Leaders of both warring factions -- strongman Khalifa Haftar and the head of Tripoli's UN-recognised government Fayez al-Sarraj -- were also in Berlin for the first such gathering since 2018.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tayyip-erdogan-calls-on-europe-to-support-turkeys-moves-in-libya-275097">Recep Tayyip Erdogan calls on Europe to support Turkey's moves in Libya</a>

But pro-Haftar forces upped the ante on the eve of the talks by blocking oil exports at Libya's key ports, crippling the country's main income source in protest at Turkey's decision to send troops to shore up Sarraj's Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA).

Ahead of the talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan lashed out at Haftar, saying he needed to drop his "hostile attitude" if Libya is to have any chance at winning peace.

The flaring oil crisis underlined the devastating impact of foreign influence in the conflict, in which Sarraj's GNA is backed by Turkey and Qatar while Haftar has the support of Russia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

Voicing his "acute concerns over the arrival of Syrian and foreign fighters in the city of Tripoli", France's President Emmanuel Macron said as the Berlin summit opened that "that must end".&nbsp;

If all goes to plan, all sides will sign up to a plan to refrain from interference, and commit to a truce that leads to a lasting end to hostilities, according to a draft of a final communique seen by AFP.&nbsp;

That document also urges all parties to re-commit to a much-violated UN arms embargo and raises the prospect of intra-Libyan political talks in Geneva at the end of the month.

But with warnings multiplying that pledges are often little respected in reality, calls have grown for international monitors to police the promises.

'Protection troops?'&nbsp;

Libya has been torn by fighting between rival armed factions since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

Most recently, Sarraj's troops in Tripoli have been under attack since April from Haftar's forces.

Clashes since April have killed more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displaced tens of thousands, until a fragile ceasefire backed by both Ankara and Moscow was put in place on January 12.

In the latest apparent ceasefire violation, GNA forces on Sunday accused Haftar's militia of opening fire on them in southern Tripoli.

Sarraj has issued a plea for international "protection troops" if Haftar were to keep up his offensive, echoing a similar call by the EU's chief diplomat Josep Borrell, who stressed that monitors must be present to check that any ceasefire and weapons embargo are respected.

With the idea gathering pace, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said London would be ready to send "people and experts" to help monitor a Libya ceasefire.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte likewise said his country "is ready to bring its contribution".

Russia also appeared open to the idea, with President Vladimir Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov saying that the "idea must be discussed on the basis of consensus."

'Second Syria'&nbsp;

Although Sarraj's government is recognised by the UN, powerful players have broken away to stand behind Haftar -- turning a domestic conflict into what some have described as a proxy war in which international powers jostle to secure their own interests.

Russia has been accused of sending in mercenaries to help Haftar as Moscow seeks to extend its influence in the region, allegations it denies.

For Turkey, the fall of Sarraj's GNA could jeopardise a maritime boundary agreement the parties signed. It gives Ankara extensive rights over the eastern Mediterranean where the recent discovery of undersea gas reserves has triggered a scramble by littoral states.&nbsp;

Erdogan has repeatedly urged Europe to stand united behind Sarraj's government, warning that Tripoli's fall could allow jihadist groups like the Islamic State or Al-Qaeda to regroup.

He has also cautioned that further unrest could prompt a new wave of migrants to head for Europe.

Underlining the stakes involved, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said "we have to make sure Libya doesn't become a second Syria."

World leaders were poised to commit to ending all foreign meddling in Libya's war at a Berlin summit Sunday, but calls were growing for an international force to ensure that pledges are put into action.

World leaders were poised to commit to ending all foreign meddling in Libya's war at a Berlin summit Sunday, but calls were growing for an international force to ensure that pledges are put into action. The presidents of Russia, Turkey and France were among global chiefs at the talks held under the auspices of the United Nations, which wants foreign powers wielding influence in the region to stop interfering in the war -- be it through weapons, troops or financing. Watch: Also read: UN envoy to Libya hopes but 'cannot predict' the reopening of Libya oil ports Leaders of both warring factions -- strongman Khalifa Haftar and the head of Tripoli's UN-recognised government Fayez al-Sarraj -- were also in Berlin for the first such gathering since 2018. Also read: Recep Tayyip Erdogan calls on Europe to support Turkey's moves in Libya But pro-Haftar forces upped the ante on the eve of the talks by blocking oil exports at Libya's key ports, crippling the country's main income source in protest at Turkey's decision to send troops to shore up Sarraj's Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA). Ahead of the talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan lashed out at Haftar, saying he needed to drop his "hostile attitude" if Libya is to have any chance at winning peace. The flaring oil crisis underlined the devastating impact of foreign influence in the conflict, in which Sarraj's GNA is backed by Turkey and Qatar while Haftar has the support of Russia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. Voicing his "acute concerns over the arrival of Syrian and foreign fighters in the city of Tripoli", France's President Emmanuel Macron said as the Berlin summit opened that "that must end". If all goes to plan, all sides will sign up to a plan to refrain from interference, and commit to a truce that leads to a lasting end to hostilities, according to a draft of a final communique seen by AFP. That document also urges all parties to re-commit to a much-violated UN arms embargo and raises the prospect of intra-Libyan political talks in Geneva at the end of the month. But with warnings multiplying that pledges are often little respected in reality, calls have grown for international monitors to police the promises. 'Protection troops?' Libya has been torn by fighting between rival armed factions since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Most recently, Sarraj's troops in Tripoli have been under attack since April from Haftar's forces. Clashes since April have killed more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displaced tens of thousands, until a fragile ceasefire backed by both Ankara and Moscow was put in place on January 12. In the latest apparent ceasefire violation, GNA forces on Sunday accused Haftar's militia of opening fire on them in southern Tripoli. Sarraj has issued a plea for international "protection troops" if Haftar were to keep up his offensive, echoing a similar call by the EU's chief diplomat Josep Borrell, who stressed that monitors must be present to check that any ceasefire and weapons embargo are respected. With the idea gathering pace, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said London would be ready to send "people and experts" to help monitor a Libya ceasefire. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte likewise said his country "is ready to bring its contribution". Russia also appeared open to the idea, with President Vladimir Putin's special representative Mikhail Bogdanov saying that the "idea must be discussed on the basis of consensus." 'Second Syria' Although Sarraj's government is recognised by the UN, powerful players have broken away to stand behind Haftar -- turning a domestic conflict into what some have described as a proxy war in which international powers jostle to secure their own interests. Russia has been accused of sending in mercenaries to help Haftar as Moscow seeks to extend its influence in the region, allegations it denies. For Turkey, the fall of Sarraj's GNA could jeopardise a maritime boundary agreement the parties signed. It gives Ankara extensive rights over the eastern Mediterranean where the recent discovery of undersea gas reserves has triggered a scramble by littoral states. Erdogan has repeatedly urged Europe to stand united behind Sarraj's government, warning that Tripoli's fall could allow jihadist groups like the Islamic State or Al-Qaeda to regroup. He has also cautioned that further unrest could prompt a new wave of migrants to head for Europe. Underlining the stakes involved, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said "we have to make sure Libya doesn't become a second Syria."

World powers to vow end to Libya meddling at Berlin summit

Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ready-to-teach-a-lesson-to-haftar-if-libyan-forces-continue-attacks-274241">Tayyip&nbsp;Erdogan</a>&nbsp;has called on&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;to&nbsp;support&nbsp;its work in&nbsp;Libya, where it is providing military&nbsp;support&nbsp;to the internationally-recognized government if it wants to end the conflict there.

Erdogan&nbsp;made his remarks in a column published on the&nbsp;Politico&nbsp;website on Saturday, ahead of a summit in Berlin on Sunday that will try to stabilize the country.

At the meeting, Germany and the United Nations will push rival&nbsp;Libyan camps fighting over the capital, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-take-part-in-libya-peace-conference-in-germany-274938">Tripoli</a>, to agree to a truce and monitoring mechanism as first steps towards peace, diplomats and a draft communique said.

Turkey&nbsp;supports the government of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-haftar-ready-to-abide-by-ongoing-ceasefire-in-libya-germany-274749">Fayez al-Serraj</a> in Tripoli and describes Khalifa Haftar, who heads the eastern&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-libyan-national-army-and-government-of-national-accord-blame-each-other-for-violating-ceasefire-273802">Libyan National Army</a> (LNA), as a coup plotter.

Watch:&nbsp;9 month long civil war comes to an end, Haftar Committed to Libya Ceasefire

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"Keeping in mind that&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;is less interested in providing military&nbsp;support&nbsp;to&nbsp;Libya, the obvious choice is to work with Turkey, which has already promised military assistance,"&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;wrote.

"We will train&nbsp;Libya's security forces and help them combat terrorism, human trafficking and other serious threats against international security," he added.

Sunday's summit will put pressure on Haftar and the LNA to halt a nine-month offensive against Tripoli after a week-long lull in fighting. But it will not try to broker power-sharing between the two sides, said diplomats briefed on preparations.

Haftar and Serraj are both due in Berlin along with&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;and the leaders of Russia, Egypt, and other Western and Arab powers.&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;has been in turmoil since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Erdogan&nbsp;said that if&nbsp;Libya's legitimate government were to fall Islamist militant groups such as Islamic State and Al Qaeda "will find a fertile ground to get back on their feet".

Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries. France has also given some&nbsp;support.

On the other side, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-lifts-ban-on-worlds-largest-encyclopedia-after-two-years-wikipedia-274791">Turkey</a> has&nbsp;supported Serraj by sending troops to balance out recent gains by Russian snipers. Hundreds of pro-Turkey fighters from Syria's war have also been deployed, diplomats say.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has called on Europe to support its work in Libya, where it is providing military support to the internationally-recognized government if it wants to end the conflict there.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has called on Europe to support its work in Libya, where it is providing military support to the internationally-recognized government if it wants to end the conflict there. Erdogan made his remarks in a column published on the Politico website on Saturday, ahead of a summit in Berlin on Sunday that will try to stabilize the country. At the meeting, Germany and the United Nations will push rival Libyan camps fighting over the capital, Tripoli, to agree to a truce and monitoring mechanism as first steps towards peace, diplomats and a draft communique said. Turkey supports the government of Fayez al-Serraj in Tripoli and describes Khalifa Haftar, who heads the eastern Libyan National Army (LNA), as a coup plotter. Watch: 9 month long civil war comes to an end, Haftar Committed to Libya Ceasefire × "Keeping in mind that Europe is less interested in providing military support to Libya, the obvious choice is to work with Turkey, which has already promised military assistance," Erdogan wrote. "We will train Libya's security forces and help them combat terrorism, human trafficking and other serious threats against international security," he added. Sunday's summit will put pressure on Haftar and the LNA to halt a nine-month offensive against Tripoli after a week-long lull in fighting. But it will not try to broker power-sharing between the two sides, said diplomats briefed on preparations. Haftar and Serraj are both due in Berlin along with Erdogan and the leaders of Russia, Egypt, and other Western and Arab powers. Libya has been in turmoil since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Erdogan said that if Libya's legitimate government were to fall Islamist militant groups such as Islamic State and Al Qaeda "will find a fertile ground to get back on their feet". Haftar is backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan, Sudanese and Chadian fighters, and most recently Russian mercenaries. France has also given some support. On the other side, Turkey has supported Serraj by sending troops to balance out recent gains by Russian snipers. Hundreds of pro-Turkey fighters from Syria's war have also been deployed, diplomats say.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan calls on Europe to support Turkey's moves in Libya

Hundreds of demonstrators on Friday in Tripoli denounced General Khalifa Hifter, commander of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF), and his supporters. Protesters held banners that read slogans such as "Hafter is the devil's messenger" and "our blood, your hands".

Libya: Khalifa Haftar shuts down eastern oil ports

Russian President Vladimir Putin will take part in a peace conference on Libya in Germany on Sunday, as world powers step up efforts to find a lasting ceasefire.

Ahead of the peace conference Libya's military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who Moscow is accused of supporting in Libya's conflict, thanked Putin for his peace efforts, the Kremlin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-haftar-ready-to-abide-by-ongoing-ceasefire-in-libya-germany-274749">General Haftar ready to abide by ongoing ceasefire in Libya, says Germany</a>

"On January 19 Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Berlin to take part in the International conference on Libya," the Kremlin said.

The peace talks in Berlin will focus on stopping the fighting and launching a "broad political dialogue" under the auspices of the United Nations, the Kremlin added in a statement.

Libya has been in turmoil since dictator Moamer Kadhafi was killed in a 2011 NATO-backed uprising.

Last April, an assault on Tripoli by military strongman Khalifa Haftar's forces sparked fighting that has killed more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters, displacing thousands.

In another statement, the Russian presidential administration said Haftar had thanked Putin for his efforts to end fighting in the war-ravaged country.

"Vladimir Putin, my dear friend!" Haftar said in a letter to Putin, quoted by the Kremlin.

"I express my personal gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of the Russian Federation to bring about peace and stability in Libya," Haftar was quoted as saying.

Earlier this week, Libya's warring sides -- Haftar and the head of Tripoli's UN-recognised government Fayez al-Sarraj -- attended talks in Moscow but Haftar left without signing a permanent truce.

He told Putin he fully supported "the Russian initiative to hold peace talks in Moscow which he added "should lead to peace in Libya".&nbsp;

Haftar also said he was ready to visit Russia again to continue dialogue.

Earlier in the day, Russia's acting foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said preparations for the peace conference were nearly ready but lamented that the war-scarred country's rivals refused to speak to each other.

"In my opinion, final documents look practically ready," Lavrov told reporters.

But he underlined the huge tension between the heads of Libya's warring sides.

"So far ties between them are very tense, they don't even want to be in the same room to say nothing of meeting each other," Lavrov said.

Lavrov said it was important for both sides not to "repeat past mistakes" and put forward additional demands after the Berlin conference. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin will take part in a peace conference on Libya in Germany on Sunday, as world powers step up efforts to find a lasting ceasefire.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will take part in a peace conference on Libya in Germany on Sunday, as world powers step up efforts to find a lasting ceasefire. Ahead of the peace conference Libya's military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who Moscow is accused of supporting in Libya's conflict, thanked Putin for his peace efforts, the Kremlin said. General Haftar ready to abide by ongoing ceasefire in Libya, says Germany "On January 19 Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Berlin to take part in the International conference on Libya," the Kremlin said. The peace talks in Berlin will focus on stopping the fighting and launching a "broad political dialogue" under the auspices of the United Nations, the Kremlin added in a statement. Libya has been in turmoil since dictator Moamer Kadhafi was killed in a 2011 NATO-backed uprising. Last April, an assault on Tripoli by military strongman Khalifa Haftar's forces sparked fighting that has killed more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters, displacing thousands. In another statement, the Russian presidential administration said Haftar had thanked Putin for his efforts to end fighting in the war-ravaged country. "Vladimir Putin, my dear friend!" Haftar said in a letter to Putin, quoted by the Kremlin. "I express my personal gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of the Russian Federation to bring about peace and stability in Libya," Haftar was quoted as saying. Earlier this week, Libya's warring sides -- Haftar and the head of Tripoli's UN-recognised government Fayez al-Sarraj -- attended talks in Moscow but Haftar left without signing a permanent truce. He told Putin he fully supported "the Russian initiative to hold peace talks in Moscow which he added "should lead to peace in Libya". Haftar also said he was ready to visit Russia again to continue dialogue. Earlier in the day, Russia's acting foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said preparations for the peace conference were nearly ready but lamented that the war-scarred country's rivals refused to speak to each other. "In my opinion, final documents look practically ready," Lavrov told reporters. But he underlined the huge tension between the heads of Libya's warring sides. "So far ties between them are very tense, they don't even want to be in the same room to say nothing of meeting each other," Lavrov said. Lavrov said it was important for both sides not to "repeat past mistakes" and put forward additional demands after the Berlin conference.

Putin to take part in Libya peace conference in Germany

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ready-to-teach-a-lesson-to-haftar-if-libyan-forces-continue-attacks-274241">Also Read:&nbsp;Turkey ready to 'teach a lesson' to Haftar if Libyan forces continue attacks</a>

Libya's UN-recognised government in Tripoli has been under attack since April from Haftar's forces, with clashes killing more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displacing tens of thousands.

The leaders of the North African state's warring factions were in Moscow early this week at talks aimed at finalising a ceasefire orchestrated by Russia and Turkey.

"During my visit to Libya today, General Haftar made clear: He wants to contribute to the success of the Libyan conference in Berlin and is in principle ready to participate in it. He has agreed to abide by the ongoing ceasefire," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted after talks in Benghazi.

After the Moscow talks, Haftar had walked away without signing the permanent truce, sparking fears about the shaky ceasefire.

Maas had travelled to meet Haftar in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi -- one of the general's strongholds -- in a bid to persuade him to join in the peace initiative.

The trip came days after Maas spoke with Haftar's rival Fayez al-Sarraj, who serves as head of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.

Separately in Tripoli, Sarraj announced he would attend the Berlin talks held under the auspices of the United Nations.

The battle over Tripoli is the latest unrest to wrack Libya since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Since then, Libya has been caught up in fighting between rival armed factions, including Islamist militants.

In his report to the UN Security Council late on Wednesday, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged all warring parties to stop fighting and "engage constructively towards that end, including within the Berlin process".

He also warned against "external interference", which he said would "deepen the ongoing conflict and further complicate efforts to reach a clear international commitment to a peaceful resolution of the underlying crisis".

The Berlin conference will aim to agree six points including a permanent ceasefire, implementation of the arms embargo and a return to the political process for peace, Guterres said.

As well as killing hundreds of people, the fighting in Libya has also spurred a growing exodus of migrants, though nearly 1,000 intercepted at sea have been forced to return this year, according to the UN.

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said.

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said. Also Read: Turkey ready to 'teach a lesson' to Haftar if Libyan forces continue attacks Libya's UN-recognised government in Tripoli has been under attack since April from Haftar's forces, with clashes killing more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displacing tens of thousands. The leaders of the North African state's warring factions were in Moscow early this week at talks aimed at finalising a ceasefire orchestrated by Russia and Turkey. "During my visit to Libya today, General Haftar made clear: He wants to contribute to the success of the Libyan conference in Berlin and is in principle ready to participate in it. He has agreed to abide by the ongoing ceasefire," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted after talks in Benghazi. After the Moscow talks, Haftar had walked away without signing the permanent truce, sparking fears about the shaky ceasefire. Maas had travelled to meet Haftar in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi -- one of the general's strongholds -- in a bid to persuade him to join in the peace initiative. The trip came days after Maas spoke with Haftar's rival Fayez al-Sarraj, who serves as head of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli. Separately in Tripoli, Sarraj announced he would attend the Berlin talks held under the auspices of the United Nations. The battle over Tripoli is the latest unrest to wrack Libya since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Since then, Libya has been caught up in fighting between rival armed factions, including Islamist militants. In his report to the UN Security Council late on Wednesday, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged all warring parties to stop fighting and "engage constructively towards that end, including within the Berlin process". He also warned against "external interference", which he said would "deepen the ongoing conflict and further complicate efforts to reach a clear international commitment to a peaceful resolution of the underlying crisis". The Berlin conference will aim to agree six points including a permanent ceasefire, implementation of the arms embargo and a return to the political process for peace, Guterres said. As well as killing hundreds of people, the fighting in Libya has also spurred a growing exodus of migrants, though nearly 1,000 intercepted at sea have been forced to return this year, according to the UN.

General Haftar ready to abide by ongoing ceasefire in Libya: Germany

The leaders of the warring parties in Libya met in Moscow on Monday in order to discuss a ceasefire agreement #WION #Libya #Libyawar

Libya: End to civil war just around the corner?

Turkey will not refrain from "teaching a lesson" to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-asks-russia-to-get-libyan-general-to-accept-truce-273642">Khalifa Haftar</a> if his eastern Libyan forces continue attacks against the country's internationally recognized government, President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-and-iran-top-agenda-in-merkel-putin-meeting-273573">Tayyip Erdogan</a> said on Tuesday.

He said Haftar had "run away" from Moscow after Monday's peace talks between him and the head of the Tripoli-based government, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-libyas-haftar-left-moscow-without-signing-ceasefire-deal-274174">Fayez al-Serraj</a>, failed to lead to an open-ended ceasefire to end their nine-month conflict.

Watch:&nbsp;Libya: Forces Loyal to General Haftar Announce Ceasefire

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"If the putschist Haftar's attacks against the people and legitimate government of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-russia-want-to-safeguard-iran-nuclear-deal-macron-274067">Libya</a> continue, we will never refrain from teaching him the lesson he deserves," Erdogan said in a speech to his AK Party lawmakers in parliament.

"It is our duty to protect our kin in Libya," Erdogan added, saying that Turkey had deep historical and social ties with the north African country and that Haftar would have taken over the entire nation if Ankara had not intervened.

He said Turkey will join Germany, Britain, and Russia at a summit which Chancellor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-not-heard-about-any-pressure-from-china-merkel-on-huaweis-5g-rollout-in-germany-269201">Angela Merkel</a> is to host in Berlin on Sunday to discuss Libya, which has been mired in chaos since the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Serraj signed the ceasefire agreement but Haftar left Moscow without signing the accord, the TASS news agency cited the Russian Foreign Ministry as saying on Tuesday.

Turkey will not refrain from "teaching a lesson" to Khalifa Haftar if his eastern Libyan forces continue attacks against the country's internationally recognized government, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday.

Turkey will not refrain from "teaching a lesson" to Khalifa Haftar if his eastern Libyan forces continue attacks against the country's internationally recognized government, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday. He said Haftar had "run away" from Moscow after Monday's peace talks between him and the head of the Tripoli-based government, Fayez al-Serraj, failed to lead to an open-ended ceasefire to end their nine-month conflict. Watch: Libya: Forces Loyal to General Haftar Announce Ceasefire × "If the putschist Haftar's attacks against the people and legitimate government of Libya continue, we will never refrain from teaching him the lesson he deserves," Erdogan said in a speech to his AK Party lawmakers in parliament. "It is our duty to protect our kin in Libya," Erdogan added, saying that Turkey had deep historical and social ties with the north African country and that Haftar would have taken over the entire nation if Ankara had not intervened. He said Turkey will join Germany, Britain, and Russia at a summit which Chancellor Angela Merkel is to host in Berlin on Sunday to discuss Libya, which has been mired in chaos since the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Serraj signed the ceasefire agreement but Haftar left Moscow without signing the accord, the TASS news agency cited the Russian Foreign Ministry as saying on Tuesday.

Turkey ready to 'teach a lesson' to Haftar if Libyan forces continue attacks

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