On his last day in office, US ambassador to Libya says military escalation is not the solution

“As I return to retirement, I am struck and saddened by the deepening divide that is undermining prospects of a better future for all Libyans.” Bodde said in a statement.

He added that the ongoing fighting in Tripoli is damaging essential civilian infrastructure, jeopardizing U.S.-Libya counterterrorism efforts and of most concern, endangering the lives of innocent civilians, including women and children.

Bodde indicated that at this sensitive moment in Libya’s transition, military posturing only risks propelling Libya back toward chaos.

“The time has come for all parties to rapidly return to political mediation led by UN Special Representative Ghassan Salamé and the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) to help avoid further escalation and chart a path forward that provides security and prosperity for all Libyans.” He remarked.

He said he firmly believes that lasting peace and stability in Libya will only come through a political solution derived from an inclusive dialogue representing the perspectives and concerns of communities across Libya: North, South, East and West.

“The success of that dialogue will depend upon a ceasefire in and around Tripoli.” He added .

Bodde urged all parties to lay down their arms and return to negotiations that will finally bring the cycle of violence in Libya to an end.