Top commanders from Libya’s rival forces met in Sirte on Sunday to advance efforts aimed at reuniting the country’s military.
The Meeting
- Eastern Chief of Staff Khaled Haftar and western counterpart Salah al‑Din al‑Namroush attended.
- Representatives from the UN Support Mission in Libya were also present.
- A statement from eastern forces described the talks as “constructive,” though no details were released.
Political Context
Libya has remained divided since the 2011 ouster of Moammar Gadhafi, with two competing governments:
- The Government of National Unity (GNU) in the west, led by Abdulhamid Dbeibah.
- The Government of National Stability in the east, aligned with Khalifa Haftar.
Reunification Proposal
- Talks reportedly began late last year, with Pakistan asked to mediate.
- The US, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey are said to support the process.
- A draft plan envisions a 36‑month transitional power‑sharing arrangement, with:
- Dbeibah as prime minister.
- Haftar’s son Saddam Haftar heading a presidential council.
- Haftar’s faction would retain budget authority, reflecting its control over Libya’s oilfields and infrastructure.
Outlook
The Sirte meeting marks another step in Libya’s long‑running bid to unify its fractured institutions. Whether the rival factions can agree on the transitional plan remains uncertain, but international backing suggests momentum toward compromise.