Rédaction Africa Links 24 with H Mohammed
Published on 2024-03-03 09:17:10
Calm has been restored in the northwestern city of Zawiya in Libya after deadly clashes between armed groups, as reported by various news outlets. The violent incident began on Saturday when unidentified gunmen targeted and killed two members of an armed group led by Mohamed Bahroun, also known as Faar, who is linked to extremist organizations. The victims, Mohamed Hassan Bashet and Mahmoud Ashour, were reportedly killed in the Harsha district of the city, although the motive behind their targeting remains unclear.
The clashes lasted for several hours on Saturday evening, with eyewitnesses reporting a mortar shell falling near the headquarters of the Stability Support Apparatus, led by Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, also known as Gheniwa. This resulted in six people sustaining injuries, as reported by local media. The Red Crescent made an appeal to the conflicting parties to cease the violence and ensure safe passage for civilians caught in the conflict zone.
Surprisingly, the Government of National Unity based in Tripoli, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, remained silent on the incident. No official statement or response was issued by the Prime Minister or any associated security authorities, including the Ministry of Interior. In contrast, the Prime Minister of the parliament-backed government in Benghazi, Osama Hammed, called for an immediate ceasefire in light of the escalating tensions.
Following the security tensions in Zawiya, Osama Hammad, the head of the Libyan government appointed by the Parliament, urged on Sunday for an immediate ceasefire. He appealed to the conflicting parties to seek resolution through judicial and security institutions to address their disputes.
The situation in Zawiya serves as a reminder of the ongoing fragility and volatility in Libya, despite efforts to establish stability and unity in the country. The incident underscores the challenges faced by the various factions and authorities in maintaining peace and security, especially in areas where armed groups continue to operate and clash.
The repercussions of the clashes in Zawiya are not limited to the immediate casualties but also include the disruption of daily life for residents and the potential for further escalation of violence. The lack of a unified response from the rival governments in Tripoli and Benghazi highlights the deep divisions and political complexities that continue to hinder progress towards peace and reconciliation in Libya.
As the conflicting parties in Zawiya navigate the aftermath of the clashes, it is crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize the protection of civilians, uphold the rule of law, and engage in dialogue to prevent further conflict. The international community also has a role to play in supporting efforts to stabilize Libya and facilitate a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflict plaguing the country.
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