The UN mission expresses concern over the execution of more than 30 people in eastern Libya

Tripoli, September 16, 2026 (LANA) – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed deep concern over the execution of more than 30 people in eastern Libya in recent weeks, calling for an immediate halt to any further executions.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Mission said that since the first reports of these executions emerged, it had engaged in extensive contacts with relevant authorities at both political and technical levels. It urged them to suspend the carrying out of death sentences and to subject the cases in question to a thorough and credible review—consistent with Libya’s human rights obligations under national and international law—while expressing deep regret that the executions proceeded despite these efforts. The statement read: "Reiterating the content of the Mission’s recent correspondence with authorities in eastern Libya, the Mission once again urges these authorities to engage with its human rights team to discuss and review procedures, ensuring full adherence to fair trial standards and due process, while acknowledging the rights of victims and their families."

The UN mission referred to the statement issued on August 26 by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, which noted that these executions mark the end of the de facto moratorium on the death penalty in Libya—a moratorium that had been in place for approximately 15 years.

The Mission added that the resumption of executions raises serious human rights concerns, particularly at a time when it is crucial to bolster public confidence in state institutions, the rule of law, and national reconciliation.

According to the statement, the Mission acknowledges the responsibility of the competent Libyan authorities to protect citizens and ensure accountability for terrorist acts and other serious crimes; it recognizes the immense suffering and grievances endured by the victims of these acts and acknowledges the legitimate aspirations of their families for justice.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) reaffirmed its readiness to cooperate constructively with the relevant authorities to support full compliance with Libya’s human rights obligations, strengthen the justice system, and uphold the right to life and fair trial guarantees.

...(LANA)...