The Government of National Accord (GNA) ordered the dismantling of two armed groups that are affiliated with its loyalist militias in wake of fierce clashes that had erupted between them in an eastern suburb of the Libyan capital Tripoli.
The clashes between the “Al-Daman” and “Lions of Tajoura” militias broke out late on Thursday and lasted until the early hours of morning. The dispute was sparked over payments owed to them by the GNA.
The GNA forces attempted to end the clashes, but they were met with fire when they tried to intervene.
At least 13 people were killed in the fighting, revealed medical and security forces. No official statement has been made over the casualties.
In an acknowledgment of the unrest, GNA Defense Minister Salah al-Namroush said Friday that he has ordered the use of force against the two militias should they refuse to immediately cease their fighting. He also ordered their dismantlement, referring their commanders to the military prosecutor.
Separately, GNA chief Fayez al-Sarraj said that reaching a lasting truce in Libya demands that the Sirte and al-Jufra regions be removed of weapons.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, he also demanded the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries from those areas and the whole of Libya in order to achieve the country’s sovereignty.
In an indirect reference to Libyan National Army commander Khalifa Haftar, he accused “aggressors” of violating the ceasefire, stressing that the GNA was committed to the peaceful solution that is based on constructive dialogue.
“This is the only way to overcome the country’s crisis,” he said, urging the importance of resuming political dialogue “with all parties.”