UNSMIL Deeply Concerned Over Deteriorating Situation in Libya Amid Central Bank Disputes
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Libya due to unilateral decisions. Disputes over control of Libya's Central Bank have raised alarms about the potential misuse of the country's financial resources.
UNSMIL is convening an emergency meeting for all parties involved in the Central Bank of Libya crisis to reach a consensus based on political agreements, applicable laws, and the principle of the central bank's independence. The mission has called for the suspension of unilateral decisions, the lifting of force majeure on oil fields, the halting of escalations and use of force, and the protection of Central Bank employees.
Libya's economy heavily relies on oil revenue, and there have been moves to impose force majeure on oil fields, effectively cutting off the country's primary source of income. Earlier on Monday, Libya's eastern-based administration ordered the closure of oilfields in eastern Libya, halting both production and exports after tensions flared over the Central Bank's leadership.
There has been no confirmation of these actions from the internationally recognized government in Tripoli or from the National Oil Corp (NOC), which controls the country's oil resources.
**Analysis:**
The situation in Libya is becoming increasingly concerning due to disputes over control of the Central Bank, which could potentially lead to the misuse of the country's financial resources. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has called for an emergency meeting to address the crisis and ensure that decisions are made based on political agreements and applicable laws. The suspension of unilateral decisions, lifting of force majeure on oil fields, and protection of Central Bank employees are among the key actions recommended by UNSMIL. The closure of oilfields in eastern Libya has further escalated tensions, threatening the country's primary source of income from oil revenue. The lack of confirmation from the recognized government in Tripoli or the National Oil Corp adds to the uncertainty surrounding the situation. This instability could have significant implications for Libya's economy and the livelihoods of its people.