UNSMIL condemns incidents at one of its centers in Tripoli

Tunis, Sept 8 (KUNA) -- The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Tuesday condemned the “repeated incidents” that occurred on Monday at the premises of a service center managed by one of the international organization’s agencies in the Libyan capital, Tripoli.

In a statement, the mission said that the relevant authorities had taken measures to address these incidents and launched an investigation into their circumstances, particularly the aggressive behavior targeting staff members of the center and individuals visiting it to obtain humanitarian assistance. It emphasized that all necessary measures should be taken to prevent their recurrence.

UNSMIL called for relying on verified and reliable information when disseminating it in the public sphere, reaffirming its commitment to constructive cooperation and close work with Libyan authorities and local communities.

For its part, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Government of National Accord (GNC) called on all Libyan citizens in a statement to refrain from any acts targeting the premises of international organizations, United Nations agencies, and diplomatic and consular missions, or their property, vehicles, or staff.

The ministry stated that freedom of expression and peaceful protest do not justify intrusion, vandalism, threats, or endangering the safety of individuals, urging Libyan citizens to refer such matters to the competent authorities. It added that it is closely monitoring any acts or attempts to attack the premises, offices, and property of international organizations, UN agencies, and accredited diplomatic and consular missions in Libya.

The ministry affirmed that these premises, properties, and their staff enjoy legal protection under national legislation and applicable international conventions, and that any intrusion, damage, threat, or attack constitutes a serious violation warranting legal accountability.

It revealed that the ministry refers all reports and complaints received regarding such practices to the Office of the Public Prosecutor to take necessary legal measures, open investigations, determine responsibilities, and hold accountable anyone proven to be involved or inciting such acts. It reaffirmed the GNC’s commitment to protecting the premises and property of these missions accredited to Libya and working with relevant national authorities to ensure their security, reflecting Libya’s respect for international law and its international obligations, and safeguarding its relations with the international community and its national interests. (End) S.B.M. / M.A.A.