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🛒 تسوق الآنEscalating criticism deepens isolation of Dbeibeh government as US initiative stalls
Escalating criticism deepens isolation of Dbeibeh government as US initiative stalls
Libya's Government of National Unity faces its most severe political crisis, with mounting rejections of the US-backed peace initiative and growing questions over its legitimacy.
The administration of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh is confronting mounting political headwinds from multiple directions, as internal opposition to a US-sponsored settlement intensifies and scrutiny over the government's legal mandate deepens. According to reports from Asharq Al-Awsat and local Libyan outlets, the converging pressures risk further destabilizing an already fractured landscape.
US initiative faces rejection in western Libya
A US-led political initiative aimed at ending Libya's division is faltering amid widespread opposition in western cities, particularly Misrata and Tripoli. The proposal, announced by US presidential adviser Massad Boulos last month, seeks to unify state institutions and form a unified government to prepare for elections.
However, the initiative has encountered stiff resistance over reports that Seddik Haftar, son of LNA commander Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, could be assigned a sovereign role. This has alarmed factions in western Libya that fought against LNA forces during the 2019 Tripoli war.
Key political figures voice opposition
Mohamed Maazab, a member of the High Council of State, told Asharq Al-Awsat the opposition stems from "legitimate concerns." He described the proposal as a power-sharing formula between Dbeibeh and Haftar under US patronage, without popular mandate or electoral pathway.
"The initiative may prolong the transitional period instead of ending it," Maazab warned, adding that it risks entrenching the division by cementing current figures without offering genuine solutions or creating conditions for elections.
Political analyst Mohamed Mahfouz expressed skepticism, noting the ambiguity surrounding the initiative's details gives sponsors room for maneuvering. He predicted that any guarantees offered to western factions would trigger equivalent demands from the east, reflecting the deep trust deficit.
Dbeibeh's silence speaks volumes
Observers have noted Dbeibeh's conspicuous silence on the initiative, contrasting with the LNA command's public endorsement. Analysts are divided: some believe he prefers to let rejectionist voices carry the opposition, while others suggest he fears the proposed arrangements could sideline him.
Political analyst Housameddine al-Abdali argued the rejection reveals Dbeibeh lacks full control over western Libya's political and military landscape. "Continued rejection could weaken his position in any future negotiations," al-Abdali said, adding that it may push Washington to explore alternative options.
Cabinet reshuffle fails to restore confidence
Adding to Dbeibeh's woes, a limited cabinet reshuffle that touched only five portfolios revived debate over the government's legality. The reshuffle conspicuously avoided sovereign ministries, prompting questions about the government's mandate.
The House of Representatives withdrew confidence from Dbeibeh's government in September 2021, yet it has continued operating, creating a protracted legal standoff.
What comes next
Al-Abdali suggested clearer details on the initiative — including a fixed election date and timeline for the transitional government — could broaden support. However, a former commander in Operation Volcano of Rage told Asharq Al-Awsat that the majority of western forces reject any agreement granting Khalifa Haftar or his sons sovereign positions.
As pressures mount from both domestic and international fronts, Dbeibeh's government appears increasingly cornered — unable to satisfy its domestic constituency nor Washington.
— Libya Press / Politics Desk
