UNSC calls for Libya ceasefire

UNITED NATIONS, May 11 (AP): The U.N. Security Council called for a cease-fire in Libya on Friday, telling its warring parties to de-escalate fighting in the capital Tripoli and return to U.N.-mediated political talks.

A press statement approved by all 15 council members expressed deep concern about "the instability in Tripoli and worsening humanitarian situation" which it said "is endangering the lives of innocent civilians and threatens prospects for a political solution."

An offensive to take control of Tripoli was launched April 4 by the self-styled Libyan National Army, led by Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter and based in the country's east. It is battling rival militias loosely allied with the U.N.-supported government in the capital.

On April 6, the Security Council called on Hifter's forces to halt all military movements and urged all forces in Libya "to de-escalate and halt military activity." The council's statement Friday went further, calling for a cease-fire and return to the political track.

The U.N. has expressed growing concern about the escalating fighting in Tripoli, saying armed clashes in the Libyan capital along with random shelling and explosives placed on roads have killed civilians, hampered the evacuation of thousands of migrants and refugees and impeded the delivery of aid.