Several major European countries and the United States are increasingly concerned about the Islamic State’s growing strength in Libya where the extremist terrorist group has found a safe haven in the leadership vacuum left by the death of Moammar Gadhafi.
The U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Italy and Spain signed a joint statement released late Sunday that condemned the “barbaric acts” by Islamic State fighters in the Libyan city of Sirte.
“We are deeply concerned about reports that these fighters have shelled densely populated parts of the city and committed indiscriminate acts of violence to terrorize the Libyan population,” the countries state in the release. “We call on all parties in Libya aspiring to a peaceful and unified nation to join efforts to combat the threat posed by transnational terrorist groups exploiting Libya for their own agenda.”
The “deplorable developments” in Sirte, they said, underscore the urgent need for parties in Libya to reach agreement on forming a unity government with support of the international community in order to stabilize the country and provide security against violent extremists groups.
“We reiterate that there is no military solution to the political conflict in Libya and remain concerned that the economic and humanitarian situation is worsening every day,” the countries said. “We stand ready to support the implementation of a political agreement to ensure that a Government of National Accord and its national institutions can function effectively and meet the urgent needs of the Libyan people.”
The Libyan government has called on the Arab League for assistance in helping it confront Islamic State forces and specifically requested additional airstrikes on Islamic State targets. Egypt and the United Arab Emirates have already flown bombing missions in Libya attacking the Islamic State.
