On October 31, 2026, the head of Libya's Presidential Council, Mohamed al-Menfi, welcomed the UN Security Council's decision to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) for an additional 12 months. This move aims to continue support for the country's ongoing political process. Al-Menfi emphasized the importance of launching a comprehensive political process led by Libyans to conclude the transitional phase and hold presidential and parliamentary elections.
In a statement released in Tripoli, al-Menfi praised the role of UNSMIL in facilitating the political process and leading mediation efforts. He also commended progress made within the framework of the mini-track and its preliminary outcomes. The extension of UNSMIL's mandate underscores the international community's commitment to supporting Libya's path towards stability and democracy.
Al-Menfi stressed the necessity of broadening the base of political consensus and ensuring the participation of all concerned institutions. He warned against selecting representatives on behalf of institutions or limiting the political process to a restricted group of parties. According to him, any understandings not based on national consensus would not guarantee the sustainability of the political solution.
The Libyan Presidential Council head appreciated the UN Security Council's affirmation of the need to unify state institutions and reject unilateral actions that could deepen divisions. He also welcomed the condemnation of attacks targeting civilian facilities and populated areas, as well as the emphasis on investigating such incidents and holding those responsible accountable.
Al-Menfi reiterated that achieving a sustainable political solution requires a national, all-inclusive process that encompasses various political forces. This process should lead to the unification of state institutions and the conclusion of transitional phases based on consensus, legitimacy, and the will of the Libyan people.
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2835 on October 30, 2026, extending UNSMIL's mandate for 12 months. This decision reflects the international community's ongoing support for Libya's efforts to achieve peace, stability, and democratic governance.
The extension of UNSMIL's mandate is seen as a crucial step towards maintaining momentum in Libya's political process. The international community continues to encourage Libyan stakeholders to engage in dialogue and work towards a lasting resolution to the country's challenges.
Key points
- The UN Security Council extended UNSMIL's mandate for 12 months to continue supporting Libya's political process.
- Libyan Presidential Council head Mohamed al-Menfi emphasized the need for a comprehensive political process led by Libyans.
- The international community continues to support Libya's efforts to achieve peace, stability, and democratic governance.
