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Iran hails UN-brokered ceasefire deal in Libya, urges dialog to resolve crisis

Security guards are seen at a check-post in the Libyan capital of Tripoli on October 23, 2020. (Photo by Reuters)

Iran has welcomed a permanent UN-brokered ceasefire agreement between warring sides in Libya, saying the crisis in the North African country should be resolve through dialog.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh on Saturday hailed efforts by the United Nations and Libya’s rival sides to reach the ceasefire agreement and expressed hope that all sides remain committed to their obligations and sign a lasting deal in the future.

He stressed the importance of putting an end to foreign interference in the process of agreements between the negotiating sides in Libya.

The Iranian spokesperson said the Islamic Republic opposes a military solution to the conflict in Libya.

Libya’s rival sides on Friday eventually agreed to sign a permanent ceasefire agreement in all areas, to bring an end to months of deadly fighting in the North African country.

The two sides poised to sign an agreement to open air and land routes that connect all regions and cities in the country, according to a United Nations spokeswoman.

The country, which sits atop the largest oil reserves in Africa, descended into chaos last year after the so-called Libyan National Army (LNA) under rebel commander Khalifa Haftar moved toward Tripoli to seize the city, which was repelled by Libyan government forces.

The conflict has escalated into a regional proxy war fueled by foreign powers pouring weapons and mercenaries into the country.

Haftar forces were fighting to unseat the government with support from the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Jordan.

But government forces have pushed them as far back as Sirte, on the Mediterranean coastline, with crucial help from Turkey.

According to the ceasefire, all military units and armed groups must pull back from the front lines and return to their camps. All foreign fighters and mercenaries must leave Libya within three months – by January 23.

The warring sides will also work with the UN Libya mission to set up a way to monitor the truce.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Friday described the permanent ceasefire agreement in Libya as a “fundamental step toward peace and stability” in the North African country.

“I appeal to all stakeholders and regional actors to respect the provisions of the ceasefire agreement and ensure its implementation without delay,” the UN chief said.

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