Rubio Meets Libyan National Army Deputy Commander Saddam Haftar, Reaffirms US Support for Libyan Unity.
Washington:
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Libyan National Army (LNA) Deputy Commander Saddam Haftar, reaffirming Washington’s support for efforts aimed at unifying Libya’s military, political and economic institutions and advancing the country’s path toward lasting peace and democratic governance.
According to a statement issued by US State Department Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the meeting focused on ongoing Libyan-led initiatives to bridge longstanding divisions and strengthen national institutions following years of political instability and conflict.
During the discussions, Secretary Rubio and Deputy Commander Haftar reviewed efforts to unify Libya’s military establishment, a key objective seen as essential to restoring stability and improving governance across the country. They also explored potential avenues for cooperation to promote national unity and support peace-building efforts.
Rubio praised the efforts of Libyan leaders working to overcome political and institutional divisions, emphasizing that sustainable progress can only be achieved through a unified national framework led by Libyans themselves.
“The Secretary expressed appreciation for the efforts of Libyan leaders to overcome divisions and move toward unity,” the State Department said in its statement.
The meeting also underscored the United States’ continued diplomatic engagement in Libya, where rival political administrations and competing armed groups have struggled for influence since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Despite several internationally backed peace initiatives, the country remains divided between eastern and western power centers.
The State Department said the United States remains committed to supporting diplomatic efforts that encourage political reconciliation and institutional unification while creating conditions for a stable and prosperous future.
Rubio reiterated that Washington would continue to work with Libyan stakeholders and international partners to support the country’s transition toward a democratically elected government capable of representing all Libyans and addressing the nation’s political, security and economic challenges.
“The United States will remain at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to support Libyan unity and create the conditions for a democratically elected government able to lead Libya forward,” the statement said.
The meeting reflects ongoing US engagement in Libya at a time when international efforts continue to focus on achieving a comprehensive political settlement, strengthening national institutions and paving the way for long-delayed national elections.
While no specific agreements or initiatives were announced following the meeting, both sides acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in advancing stability, reconciliation and national unity in Libya.
