Saudi Arabia expresses deep concern over armed clashes in Libya capital

Members of security personnel affiliated with the Ministry of Interior secure the streets after Tuesday’s clashes between armed factions in Tripoli, Libya, August 16, 2023. (Reuters)

• Tripoli’s worst armed clashes in a year have killed 55 people and wounded 146
• A cease-fire is currently in place

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia expressed deep concern over recent armed clashes in Libya’s capital on Wednesday.

Tripoli’s worst armed clashes in a year have killed 55 people and wounded 146, Libyan media reported as a truce took hold.

Fighting erupted on Monday night and raged through Tuesday between the influential 444 Brigade and the Al-Radaa, or Special Deterrence Force, two of the myriad of militias that have vied for power in the country since the overthrow of Muammar Qaddafi in 2011.

The Kingdom called on all Libyan parties to exercise restraint and prioritise the interest of the Libyan people in a way that preserves national gains.

It also urged all parties to abide by international resolutions aimed at strengthening security and stability in Libya.