search

World, Arab powers back Libya unity government as way to fight IS

A US and Italy-led coalition of world powers and regional players urge Libya’s warring factions to lay down their weapons and back a new national unity government under a UN peace plan due to be signed on Wednesday.

US Secretary of State John Kerry is among ministers and officials from 17 countries who, along with the UN, the EU and the Arab league, call for an immediate ceasefire across Libya.

They pledge support for efforts to end the chaos that has engulfed the North African state since the 2011 overthrow of Moamer Kadhafi, and to reduce the risk of Islamic State (IS) expanding its presence.

“We came here today because we cannot allow the status quo to continue,” Kerry says at the close of talks attended by 15 officials from different wings of Libya’s splintered political class.

“It is dangerous for the viability of Libya, dangerous for Libyans and, because of Daesh (IS) migrating there, dangerous for everyone.

“We refuse to stand by and watch a vacuum filled by terrorists.”

— AFP

Never miss breaking news on Israel
Get notifications to stay updated
You're subscribed
image
Register for free
and continue reading
Registering also lets you comment on articles and helps us improve your experience. It takes just a few seconds.
Already registered? Enter your email to sign in.
Please use the following structure: [email protected]
Or Continue with
By registering you agree to the terms and conditions. Once registered, you’ll receive our Daily Edition email for free.
Register to continue
Or Continue with
Log in to continue
Sign in or Register
Or Continue with
check your email
Check your email
We sent an email to you at .
It has a link that will sign you in.