Atlantic Council Warns of Risks in US Support for Libyan Forces Tied to Hemedti

The Atlantic Council has warned that US efforts to unify Libya's military may inadvertently legitimize armed groups involved in human rights abuses. In an analytical article, the council noted that Washington's attempts to consolidate the military institution in Libya could have unintended consequences. The article called on Congress to impose conditions on US military aid to Libyan forces supporting Hemedti, the leader of the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces.

The Atlantic Council's article highlighted the risks associated with US efforts to unify forces in eastern and western Libya. Reports from the United Nations have documented human rights abuses committed by armed groups on both sides. Furthermore, the article revealed that forces affiliated with Khalifa Haftar have provided support to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, including facilitating access to fuel and vehicle spare parts.

The article expressed concern that US training provided to units that have assisted these forces would contradict US sanctions imposed on leaders of the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces. To mitigate these risks, the Atlantic Council urged Congress to require a joint review by the State and Defense Departments before providing training or equipment to any Libyan military unit.

The council also recommended that US assistance be restricted to units that do not support the Rapid Support Forces, with any exceptions subject to oversight by relevant congressional committees. Additionally, the article called for the US administration to provide a clear plan for the Libyan military unification project, including mechanisms for civilian oversight, background checks on leaders and units, and metrics for measuring progress.

The US is intensifying its engagement in Libya through mediation efforts led by US diplomat Masood Bolus. These efforts include meetings with officials from eastern and western Libya, as well as discussions on establishing a joint operations center in Sirte and a unified air command. The Atlantic Council's article noted that Congress may be asked to contribute to funding for military unification efforts.

However, the shape of a unified force and its leadership remain unclear. The article emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in US support for Libyan military unification. The Atlantic Council's warning highlights the complexities and potential risks associated with US involvement in Libya's ongoing conflict.

The article concluded by emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and oversight in US policy towards Libya. The US must balance its goals of stabilizing the region with the need to avoid inadvertently supporting abusive armed groups. Key to this effort will be the implementation of robust safeguards and accountability mechanisms to ensure that US assistance promotes long-term stability and security in Libya.

Key points

• The Atlantic Council has warned that US support for Libyan military unification may legitimize armed groups with human rights abuses.
• The council has urged Congress to impose conditions on US military aid to Libyan forces supporting Hemedti.
• The US administration should provide a clear plan for the Libyan military unification project, including mechanisms for civilian oversight and metrics for measuring progress.