US, its allies call for immediate de-escalation of tensions in Libya

The United States and its allies yesterday called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions in Libya. They warned any military action would have consequences after Libyan army commander Khalifa Haftar ordered forces to advance on Tripoli,  the capital of the UN-backed government, in Libya. 

The United States, France, Britain, Italy and the United Arab Emirates in a joint statement in Washington said they  oppose any military action in Libya and will hold accountable any Libyan faction that precipitates further civil



conflict. 

The statement further said military posturing and threats of unilateral action will only risk propelling Libya back toward chaos.

Dozens of militias have fought for control of the North African country since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Haftar's forces have emerged as a key player, opposing the government in Tripoli and backing a parallel administration in the east.