Latest from Libyan Express
Libyan Express
an hour ago
- Politics
- Libyan Express
UN's Libya plans face sharp criticism
UN mission under fire amid political crisis The Libyan capital, Tripoli, is experiencing a growing wave of public frustration with the performance of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Increasingly, citizens perceive the mission not as part of the solution but rather as a burden on the country's political process and stability. During a field survey, Libyan Express gathered opinions from several residents who expressed deep dissatisfaction with what they described as the mission's absence from the realities on the ground. They emphasised that the mission's presence has failed to bring any tangible improvements to Libya's political or economic conditions or to the daily lives of its people. This discontent coincided with protests held outside the UN mission's headquarters in Tripoli, where demonstrators raised slogans condemning what they described as the ongoing deterioration of the political and economic situation across Libya. The protesters demanded a reassessment of the mission's role and its withdrawal, accusing it of failing to provide real solutions. Citizen Ramadan Khaled stated that the mission is no longer a trustworthy party in political settlements, asserting that it has become part of the problem itself. He called for its removal, citing a lack of seriousness and commitment. Meanwhile, Ms Fawziya Ben Ali described the mission's activities as limited to formal meetings, dialogues, and overseas trips, with no real impact inside Libya. Researcher Dr Ibrahim Mohammed argued that the mission's efforts merely recycle old proposals that had been presented in previous years, lacking clear timelines or implementation mechanisms, which undermines its credibility. Additionally, some citizens accused the mission of executing foreign agendas that do not reflect Libyan aspirations but rather serve international interests detached from local realities. In related developments, the UN mission announced on 4 February the formation of an advisory committee composed of twenty Libyan experts in an effort to revive the political process. This initiative forms part of the mission's multi-track approach, which it submitted to the UN Security Council during its session on 16 December 2023. On 20 May, the mission revealed the committee's recommendations, stating that they represent Libyan advice intended to be considered in the next phases of the political process it facilitates. The goal is to build consensus, unify state institutions, and move forward toward elections. These efforts come amid a severe political crisis in Libya characterised by the existence of two rival governments. The first, led by Osama Hammad, is based in Benghazi and was appointed by the House of Representatives in early 2022; it controls the eastern regions and most of the south. The second is the Government of National Unity, headed by Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, based in Tripoli, governing the western part of the country. Despite the mission's ongoing attempts to support the political process, popular trust remains low amid rising frustration and concerns that the UN's initiatives may amount to mere formalities without delivering real change.
Libyan Express
2 hours ago
- Politics
- Libyan Express
Turkey rejects EU criticism of maritime deal with Libya
BY Libyan Express Jun 28, 2025 - 07:52 Turkey accuses EU of bias over maritime pact with Libya Turkey has dismissed European Union criticism of its 2019 maritime agreement with Libya, describing the EU's position as unhelpful to regional peace and stability. In a statement on Friday, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Öncü Keçeli responded to conclusions adopted by the European Council on 28 June 2025. The statement said the EU stance reflected the efforts of Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration to advance maritime claims that Ankara argues are incompatible with international law and the principle of equity. The maritime memorandum of understanding, signed between Turkey and Libya's then-UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), defines maritime boundaries in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey maintains that the deal is legally valid and in line with international law. Keçeli said Ankara would not accept attempts to undermine what it considers its legitimate rights and interests in the region. He also said the EU's approach to maritime boundary issues—described as legally and technically complex—was politically biased and unlikely to contribute to stability. Tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean have risen in recent years due to competing maritime claims and energy exploration activities involving Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and other regional actors. The European Council's final communiqué is expected to express support for Greece's position on the Turkey-Libya agreement and address concerns related to irregular migration routes from the Libyan coast to southern Europe. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express. How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@ Please include 'Op-Ed' in the subject line.
Libyan Express
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Libyan Express
Al-Ittihad slams LFF decision, takes case to sports court
BY Libyan Express Jun 28, 2025 - 07:40 Updated: Jun 28, 2025 - 07:44 Al-Ittihad takes legal action after derby result overturned Al-Ittihad Football Club announced on Friday evening that it will lodge an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the Libyan Football Federation's (LFF) decision to annul the result of their match against Al-Ahly Tripoli. In a statement published on its official Facebook page, the club described the ruling as 'unjust'. The move follows the LFF's decision to cancel the result of the capital derby between Al-Ahly Tripoli and Al-Ittihad, held during the first round of the Libyan Premier League championship play-offs. The match had not been completed. In a video statement shared via the Federation's official Facebook page, the LFF's Vice President, Fawzi Ajouda, announced a three-match suspension for Al-Ahly Tripoli player Hamdou Elhouni, due to an off-the-ball assault on an opposing player. Al-Ittihad's Sobhi Al-Mabrouk was also handed a three-match ban, based on the match commissioner's report. As of Friday evening, Al-Ahly Tripoli's management had not issued any official comment on the Federation's decisions. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express. How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@ Please include 'Op-Ed' in the subject line.
Libyan Express
2 hours ago
- Politics
- Libyan Express
New agreement aims to ease Congo-Rwanda tensions
Congo and Rwanda sign US-brokered peace deal The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a US-brokered agreement aimed at easing long-standing tensions and fostering cooperation in eastern Congo, a region affected by decades of armed conflict and humanitarian crises. The accord was signed during a ceremony in Washington, with both governments pledging to support measures for regional stability and economic development. The agreement includes provisions affirming respect for territorial integrity, cessation of hostilities, and a framework for the disengagement and disarmament of non-state armed groups. It also outlines steps toward the conditional reintegration of former combatants and improved coordination on cross-border security. As part of the agreement, the United States indicated it would work with both countries to support infrastructure development and facilitate responsible investment in eastern Congo's mineral sector, which holds global importance due to its reserves of cobalt, coltan, and other critical materials. Cautious optimism from both sides DR Congo's Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe signed the document and described it as a foundation for future cooperation. Both officials acknowledged the complexity of the situation on the ground and the challenges of implementation. 'There is no quick solution to the suffering in the east, but this agreement reflects a shared recognition that regional peace is in everyone's interest,' said Wagner. Nduhungirehe added that strengthening bilateral dialogue and economic ties could help reduce tensions and promote stability. Concerns over armed group activity While the agreement is being welcomed as a diplomatic step forward, observers have noted that the situation in eastern DRC remains fragile. Over 100 armed groups operate in the region, including the M23 movement, which has advanced in recent months and taken control of key towns and mining zones. Although the M23 was a central subject in the talks, its leaders have so far not committed to the agreement, raising questions about how it will be enforced in areas outside direct government control. The conflict has led to the displacement of more than seven million people, according to UN estimates. Humanitarian agencies continue to report limited access to basic services and growing needs among displaced populations. International response and next steps US President Donald Trump described the agreement as a significant milestone in efforts to resolve what he called 'one of the world's most enduring conflicts.' Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the accord was 'an encouraging development' and confirmed that the US would remain engaged in supporting its implementation. The United Nations and regional organisations are expected to monitor developments closely. Analysts note that sustained political will, transparent follow-through, and inclusive dialogue—particularly with affected communities and non-state actors—will be essential to ensuring that the agreement leads to concrete outcomes.
Libyan Express
7 hours ago
- Politics
- Libyan Express
Iran sends warning to Trump and Israel over threats and insults
BY Libyan Express Jun 28, 2025 - 05:11 Araghchi warns Trump and Israel: Iran will not tolerate threats Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has claimed that Israel has 'no refuge but the United States' in the face of Iranian military power, and warned that Tehran would not tolerate insults or threats directed at its leadership or sovereignty. In a statement posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Araghchi praised what he described as the resilience and national dignity of the Iranian people, drawing a comparison to the craftsmanship of Persian carpets. 'The complexity and resilience of the Iranian people are clearly reflected in our exquisite carpets—woven with infinite patience and countless hours of dedicated work,' he wrote. 'But in terms of national principles, we are a straightforward and rational people: we know what we possess, we value our independence, and we will not allow anyone to determine our fate.' Turning to former US President Donald Trump, Araghchi urged him to adopt a more respectful tone if any future agreement with Iran is to be taken seriously. 'If Mr Trump is genuinely seeking an agreement, he must abandon the disrespectful and unacceptable language he has used towards the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and avoid offending the millions of his loyal followers.' He continued by asserting that Israel had sought protection from Washington in the face of Iranian missile capabilities. 'The great Iranian people have shown the world that the Zionist regime had no other means of survival than seeking shelter with its 'spoilt father'—the United States. Iran does not tolerate threats or insults. And if delusions escalate into greater mistakes, we will not hesitate to reveal our real capabilities. At that moment, all illusions about Iran's strength will vanish.' Araghchi concluded with a message emphasising reciprocal diplomacy: 'Goodwill is met with goodwill, and respect is met with respect.' His remarks come amid ongoing regional tensions and renewed scrutiny over Iran's relationship with both Israel and the United States. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express. How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@ Please include 'Op-Ed' in the subject line.
