On 9 August, UNSMIL said in a statement that it is observing with concern the recent mobilization of forces in various parts of Libya, particularly in the southern and western regions. It welcomed the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation and avoid further tensions. All parties were urged to exercise maximum restraint and to avoid any provocative military action that could be perceived as an offensive. There was a call to continue communication and coordination ‘between forces affiliated to the Libyan National Army (LNA) and Government of National Unity (GNU)’.
The EU mission and the embassies of the EU states in Libya expressed their deep concern about the recent military build-up and troop movements, particularly in the southwest. All Libyan actors and armed groups were urged to exercise restraint and de-escalate. The embassies of France, Germany, Italy, the UK and the USA also supported UNSMIL’s statement on the military tensions in a joint statement. They encouraged the security forces in the East and West to take the opportunity for deeper talks and cooperation to secure the borders.
On 10 August, the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported UNSMIL’s statement and expressed its concern about the movement of troops in various parts of Libya, particularly in the southwest.