The UN Security Council will hold a session in October to review the situation in Libya and renew the mandate of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), which expires on October 31. The session will feature an briefing by UNSMIL chief, Hanna Titihe, on the latest developments in the country's political, security, and humanitarian situations.
According to a report by Security Council Report, one of the key issues on the agenda is the renewal of UNSMIL's mandate. Options being considered include extending the mandate for another year with the current tasks and updating the text to reflect recent political and security developments. The council may also consider strengthening UNSMIL's role in supporting the implementation of a political roadmap.
In recent developments, Titihe briefed the Security Council on August 18, discussing the situation in Libya. The UNSMIL has been working to address the country's challenges, including the political stalemate and institutional fragmentation. In August 2025, UNSMIL presented a political roadmap with three main axes: establishing a framework for presidential and legislative elections, unifying state institutions under a new government.
The UNSMIL launched a mini-dialogue mechanism, "4+4," in April, which comprises representatives from the Government of National Unity, the High Council of State, the House of Representatives, and the Libyan National Army. On August 30, the mechanism reached an agreement on restructuring the High National Elections Commission and amending electoral laws.
The security situation in Libya remains fragile, particularly in the west. Clashes between armed groups in Zawiya and Sirt have been reported, as well as drone attacks on oil and power infrastructure. The UNSMIL warned that such attacks could lead to punitive measures under UN Security Council resolutions.
The Security Council members have expressed concern over the security situation and emphasized the need for a comprehensive political process led by Libyans. They also support the role of the UN as a mediator in achieving this goal. The US has launched a separate diplomatic initiative, led by Masood Bouls, which reportedly involves a power-sharing arrangement.
China and Russia have reiterated their support for Libya's sovereignty and the principle of a Libyan-led political process. They emphasized the need for the UN to maintain a central role in mediation and for UNSMIL to continue engaging with key Libyan stakeholders. Russia highlighted the importance of working within existing Libyan legal and institutional frameworks.
Key points
- The UN Security Council will discuss Libya's situation and renew the mandate of UNSMIL in October.
- The security situation in Libya remains fragile, with clashes and drone attacks reported in the west.
- The US has launched a separate diplomatic initiative, which reportedly involves a power-sharing arrangement.
