On 5 July, the Misrata Military Council issued a statement criticised what it described as attempts by US Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs Massad Boulos to legitimise Libyan National Army (LNA) commander Khalifa Haftar within political dialogue efforts, warning that such moves could pave the way for a new transitional phase that bypasses elections. The council said the approach undermines efforts to prepare for a constitutional referendum, which it considers essential for establishing a civilian state based on democratic elections. It also rejected any agreement involving Haftar and his sons, saying it is an attempt to avoid legal accountability and revive military rule. The council further warned against ‘political deals’ that could prolong instability. It also rejected Boulos’ planned visit to Misrata, stressing that its position reflects that of the forces on the ground in the city.
There have been other calls for demonstrations to protest Massad Boulos’s visit to the city and to reaffirm opposition to the deal he is seeking to push through. Indeed, there were protests outside the airport upon Boulos’ arrival into the city on 7 July.
On 7 July, Boulos visited Misrata accompanied by US Charge d’Affaires Jeremy Berndt. A photo circulated of Boulos meeting with the president and vice president of the Misratan Council of Elders and Notables and some figures from the city. The Misratan delegation reportedly laid out clear red lines for any US-backed political settlement, warning that they would reject any framework that threatens to prolong the nation’s long-standing crisis. The coalition issued a firm directive to Boulos: they will not support any agreement that ‘reproduces’ the current political deadlock or provides a path back to power for individuals linked to past corruption or human rights abuses. The leaders emphasized that they welcome the US role in fostering peace, provided that any diplomatic framework must strictly respect Libyan independence.