CAIRO (AP) — A renegade general leading a week-long military campaign in Libya against Islamists dominating the country’s political scene urged Thursday for a “war against terrorism,” vowing to keep up his offensive until he purges his nation of militants.

Gen. Khalifa Hifter told The Associated Press that he doesn’t seek power for himself but a new, democratically elected leadership for Libya, and a strong military that will act as a “safety valve” against corrupt leaders.