Brussels – The European Council extended on Thursday sanctions against three rival political leaders in Libya for their obstructive role in the country.
Libya has descended into chaos since the 2011 overthrow of long-time dictator Muammar Gaddafi.
The country is governed by three competing governments – two in Tripoli and one in the eastern city of Tobruk.
The UN-backed government in Tripoli, led by Fayez Serraj, took over in 2016 with international hopes that it could restore stability.
However, it has been unable to gain recognition from rivals.
According to a statement released by the Council, the sanctions target: Agila Saleh, the head of the House of Representatives based in Tobruk, as well as Khalifa Ghweil and Nuri Abu Sahmain, key members of the General National Congress.
The EU accuses the three men of “obstructing the implementation of the Libyan Political Agreement of Dec. 17, 2015 and the formation of a Government of National Accord in Libya.”
The EU considers the government of national accord, led by Serraj, to be the sole legitimate government in the country.
The sanctions have been in place since April 2016. (Reuters/NAN)
