U.N. Official: Islamic State militants will “stop at nothing” to strengthen their presence in Libya

A top U.N. official said ISIS is determined to expand their influence in Libya, according to a report by Reuters.

At a U.N. Security Council briefing on Libya’s ongoing turmoil this week, Bernardino Leon, U.N. Special Envoy, said the country’s request for assistance to tackle extremism was of utmost importance.  

“We should be careful to not underestimate the sense of urgency and alarm underpinning this request for international support on addressing the threat of terrorism," he said.

Libya has been marked by a struggle for control between two rival governments. Amidst the chaos, Islamist militants have reportedly seized opportunities to strengthen their foothold, recently attacking two oilfields and displacing security forces.

Leon warned that Islamic State exploits political divisions to solidify their influence in Libya, underscoring the urgent need for international support in countering terrorism and extremism.  

Fighting and airstrikes in Libya have intensified in recent days as the United Nations prepares to resume negotiations between the opposing factions to create a unity government.