Haftar Urges Libyans to Take the Helm and Pursue a Comprehensive Political Solution

Libya — Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Haftar, General Commander of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, called on Libyans to assume the initiative themselves to set a political course that ensures state-building and ends the paralysis and division. His remarks came during a meeting with the sheikhs and notables of the Bani Walid tribes.

Greetings to Bani Walid Delegation
Haftar opened by welcoming the Bani Walid elders, praising their attendance and the effort made to travel. He said the General Command is keen to check on the conditions and livelihoods of the city’s residents amid the country’s exceptional circumstances, noting that a state’s performance can only be judged by citizens’ standard of living—the primary purpose of its existence.

Army Readiness to Protect the People
Haftar affirmed that all branches of the armed forces have reached an advanced level of readiness and development, performing their national duty with professionalism and dedication, and that they stand prepared at all times to protect and defend the people. He added that the General Command closely monitors developments and is committed to the country’s unity and stability.

Critique of Political Performance and Call for Fundamental Change
He said Libyans have now grasped the gravity of the moment, and that the status quo is no longer acceptable. The actors who dominated the scene in recent years, he argued, failed to address the crisis despite being afforded time and trust—leaving the situation more complex and without signs of a fair, comprehensive settlement.

Direct Appeal to the People to Decide Their Fate
Haftar declared it is time to address the people directly, without intermediaries or barriers, stressing that the only remaining option is for the people themselves to determine their destiny and draft a roadmap toward a peaceful, just political solution culminating in the state they aspire to build. He urged countries seeking Libya’s stability to side with the people’s choices and support them in this endeavor.

Cooperation with Partners; Warning of Spoilers
He added that this popular course does not conflict with the interests of states that foster cooperation with Libya; on the contrary, it helps create a safe, stable environment that encourages development and investment. At the same time, he warned that hostile actors will seek to derail the process to protect their own interests.

Commitment to a Path Toward Stability
Concluding, Haftar renewed his welcome to the Bani Walid elders and prayed for success in what serves the country’s good, expressing hope that the meeting would be a step toward peace, unity, and stability.