The African Union called for a permanent ceasefire in Libya following deadly clashes in the capital earlier this month.
At least eight people died in fighting between an armed group aligned with Tripoli’s government and rival factions, the United Nations reported.
Though no formal ceasefire has been signed, the clashes largely subsided last week as efforts for a truce continued.
The AU’s Peace and Security Council condemned the violence on Saturday, demanding an “unconditional and permanent ceasefire” in Libya.
In a statement on social media, the council urged “inclusive, Libyan-led reconciliation” and warned against external interference.
Libya remains divided between the UN-recognised government in Tripoli, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, and a rival administration in the east.
The conflict traces back to the 2011 NATO-backed revolt that toppled longtime leader Moamer Kadhafi, leaving the country fragmented.
The recent clashes began after the killing of an armed faction leader by the 444 Brigade, a force aligned with Dbeibah’s government.
Following the killing, the 444 Brigade clashed with the Radaa force, which controls parts of eastern Tripoli and its airport.
Dbeibah announced executive orders to dismantle Radaa and other Tripoli-based groups, but notably excluded the 444 Brigade from these moves.
The African Union’s call for peace comes as Libya struggles to overcome decades of division and violence, yearning for stability.
