Massive Protests in Tripoli Demand the Removal of Libyan Prime Minister, Amid Growing Violence
Citizens Call for the Resignation of Abdulhamid Dbeibeh as Violent Clashes in Tripoli Lead to Civilian Casualties
Watan-On Wednesday evening, large protests erupted in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, with demonstrations taking place outside the Prime Minister’s office, in Martyrs’ Square, and in Abu Slim, where hundreds of citizens gathered demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid Dbeibeh.
A scene shared by activists showed protesters setting military vehicles on fire outside the headquarters of the Stability Support Agency, whose head was killed two days ago, and taking control of the compound. Other footage showed security forces withdrawing from the area.
In a bold decision, the Presidential Council issued a decree confirming a complete ceasefire in all regions, obliging all military units to immediately return to their bases without any conditions.
Libyan Presidential Council Freezes Military Decisions Amid Tripoli Protests
The Presidential Council tasked the Libyan General Staff with monitoring and assessing the situation, reporting any violations that may occur, and determining the responsibilities related to them.
The decree also decided to freeze all decisions by the Government of National Unity related to military or security matters, including those related to restructuring security institutions or assigning individuals to military or security duties, within the transitional government’s competencies.
According to the decree, a fact-finding committee will be formed, headed by the Chief of Staff, to investigate the events starting from Monday and the damages caused to public and private properties.
The Ministry of Defense of the Government of National Unity had announced its sponsorship of a ceasefire agreement and the deployment of forces to resolve the conflict and monitor points of contact.
Anger escalated among the residents of Tripoli against the clashes of the past two days, which broke out in several neighborhoods and resulted in casualties, damage to properties, and public facilities.
Libyan Municipalities and International Bodies Call for Ceasefire Amid Tripoli Clashes
The Municipality of Souq Al-Jumma issued a statement rejecting what it called the “unjust aggression” on Tripoli, reaffirming its support for the deterrent force and its supporters. The statement stated that the government’s “irresponsible actions” had disrupted social peace and invalidated its legitimacy in power, calling for the removal of the government, which no longer has any justification to continue managing the country.
Separate statements from the regions of Zawiya and Sorman conveyed clear messages rejecting internal conflict and urgently calling for a final ceasefire to preserve bloodshed and maintain any remaining stability.
The Municipality of Janzour condemned the events in Tripoli, expressing solidarity with the affected residents, and called for an urgent investigation into those responsible for destabilizing security and stability, urging all parties to prioritize the country’s welfare over other considerations.
The Council of Elders and Notables of Tripoli Center strongly condemned what it called the “futile war” in the streets of Tripoli. The elders and notables held the Presidential Council, the Government, the General Staff, and all the conflicting parties responsible for protecting the lives of civilians and their properties, stressing the need to remove all armed groups from Tripoli.
Meanwhile, residents and revolutionaries from Misrata reaffirmed their support for the Government of National Unity, calling for an end to all transitional phases through a clear democratic process.
The European Union expressed concern over reports of civilian injuries and widespread destruction to infrastructure, affirming its support for the ceasefire and the de-escalation of tensions in Tripoli, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining the ceasefire and engaging all concerned parties in genuine dialogue to resolve the remaining issues.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit also expressed grave concern over the recent clashes in Tripoli, reiterating his call for all active parties in Libya to stop the escalation, prioritize national responsibility, and resort to dialogue.
International Embassies Urge Ceasefire and Protection of Civilians Amid Tripoli Violence
The embassies of France, the UK, the US, Italy, and Germany expressed deep concern over the recent violence in Tripoli, urging for immediate calm to serve the interests of all Libyans, calling on authorities to take all necessary measures to protect civilians.
Similarly, the Canadian embassy shared the UN Mission’s statement, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across all regions and urging not to endanger civilian lives.
The Austrian Embassy condemned the violence in Tripoli and the movement of military forces in other parts of the country, warning that endangering the lives of civilians may constitute crimes under international law.
For its part, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is closely monitoring the escalation in Tripoli and the surrounding areas, urging all parties to promptly reach a complete and lasting ceasefire and engage in dialogue to resolve the disputes.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry also confirmed Ankara’s readiness to play its role in reaching a permanent and sustainable solution in Tripoli.
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry called on all Libyan parties to prioritize national interests, end the current escalation, and resort to reason to preserve the resources of the Libyan state. The Egyptian Embassy urged its citizens in Libya to exercise extreme caution and stay at home until the situation stabilizes.
