Joint Statement on Libya by the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States
August 13, 2014
Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States strongly condemn the ongoing
fighting and violence in and around Tripoli, Benghazi, and across Libya. We are in particular deeply concerned by the
increasing toll the violence is taking on Libya’s civilian population and institutions, as well as the threat it poses
to Libya’s democratic transition. We deplore the rise in the number of civilian casualties and express deep concern
about the shortages in medical supplies, the displacement of thousands of families, the destruction of residences and
infrastructure, as well as the halt in economic activity. We are deeply concerned about attacks carried out against the
civilian population and civilian targets in Tripoli and Benghazi that may amount to breaches of international
humanitarian law. These violations must stop and those responsible must be held accountable.
Violence cannot and must not be a means to achieve political goals or settle ideological differences. Only through
political dialogue, inclusiveness, and consensus can Libyans move the country beyond the current crisis and build the
free, prosperous, democratic, and secure state for which they have sacrificed so much.
We therefore reiterate the repeated calls by the international community, as well as the Libyan interim government and
House of Representatives, for an immediate ceasefire and for all parties to this conflict to begin a peaceful political
dialogue, and for them to recognize the authority of the elected representatives of the Libyan people. We remain in
constant contact with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and strongly support its efforts to achieve an
immediate ceasefire and to end the bloodshed. We urge all sides to respond positively and without delay.
The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States continue to stand firmly behind the
Libyan people, and will partner with Libya until the hopes and aspirations of the Libyan people are achieved.
ENDS