Libya – The General Commander of the Armed Forces, Field Marshal Khalifa Abu al-Qasim Haftar, received the sheikhs, elders, and notables of the city of Zawiya at Al-Mushir Khalifa Haftar Military City, in the presence of the Prime Minister of the Libyan Government, Osama Hammad, and the Minister of Interior, Maj. Gen. Essam Abu Zariba.
Delegation Expresses Support for the Armed Forces
During the meeting—and according to the General Command’s media office—the Zawiya delegation voiced appreciation for the General Command and its efforts to bolster security and stability, affirming full support for the Armed Forces and their steadfast national positions in protecting the homeland and safeguarding its unity.
Haftar Welcomes Delegation, Stresses Unity
The General Commander welcomed the Zawiya elders, praising their national stances and stressing that Libyans’ cohesion and unity are the true guarantee for navigating the country’s critical phase.
Haftar’s Address to Zawiya Sheikhs and Elders
In his remarks, Haftar said the meeting reflects the spirit of brotherhood uniting all Libyans as one family, lauding the delegation’s journey from Zawiya to Benghazi for its national symbolism and demonstration of unity of purpose.
Call to Close Ranks and Work Together
Haftar said Libya is passing through a delicate period that requires everyone to join forces to chart a course that leads the country to safe shores and shields it from division and strife. He stressed that no power in the world can tear Libyans apart if they remain committed to their national will.
Diagnosing the Political Crisis and Its Impact
The General Commander explained that the Libyan state has been shaken by successive shocks that weakened its institutions and undermined their ability to serve citizens. He said the failure of local and international initiatives to produce real solutions has pushed the country toward the unknown.
He noted that Libyans have repeatedly lived under the illusion that a solution was near, whereas true relief will only come when the people themselves determine the roadmap they seek.
People as the Source of Authority
Haftar stressed that the solution will only come through the will of Libyans. He called on the people to raise their voice and choose their destiny themselves, as no one can substitute for them in deciding their future. He emphasized that state institutions—legislative and executive—must respond to the people’s will, and that maneuvering or playing for time is no longer viable.
Warning Against Collapse; Call for National Action
Haftar warned that the state is on a path to collapse if reliance on illusions persists, urging a candid reckoning with reality and concerted action to save the country before it is too late.
He said the General Command looks to Zawiya’s elders and notables—as part of the national fabric—to play an influential role in raising public awareness and prioritizing the national interest above all else.
Invitation to Join a Peaceful Popular Movement
The General Commander invited the people of Zawiya to be at the forefront of a peaceful popular mobilization in support of a national track that reflects the popular will, stressing that the city—given its weight and influence—cannot remain outside the circle of national decision-making.
