The UN Security Council on Friday unanimously voted to extend the mandate of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) for another year, reaffirming its commitment to peace and stability in the war-torn nation.
Drafted by the United Kingdom, the resolution prolongs UNSMIL’s mission until Oct. 31, 2026, ensuring continued international backing for Libya’s fragile political transition.
Britain’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador James Kariuki, hailed the move as a vital step toward rebuilding the country’s democratic foundations.
“This mandate plays an important role in supporting the Libyan people to achieve the peace, stability and democratic governance they deserve,” he said following the vote.
UNSMIL was established in 2011 after a six-month conflict that ended the four-decade rule of Muammar Gaddafi. The mission has since aimed to guide Libya’s transitional authorities through political reform and reconciliation efforts.
Yet, more than a decade later, Libya remains divided between rival administrations, with sporadic clashes and political deadlock hindering progress.
The renewed mandate signals the international community’s determination to prevent further instability and to nurture a path toward lasting peace.
As Libya continues to grapple with internal divisions and foreign influence, the UN’s extended presence stands as both a safeguard and a symbol of enduring global concern.
