Libya dismisses foreign military intervention in fight against IS

The Prime Minister of Libya’s national unity government, Fayez al-Sarraj has dismissed international military intervention in the fight against the terrorist group Islamic State whose threat is growing in the country since they gained roots in 2014.

“It is true that we need help from the international community in our war against terrorism and it is true that we have already received some help. We are not talking about international intervention,” he said in an interview published on Sunday by French newspaper, Journal du Dimanche.

“The intervention of ground troops is contrary to our principles. That is why we want to avoid it. We however need satellite images, information, technical aids and not bombs,” Sarraj said.

“To rebuild the country, our approach is based on three pillars: the economy, security and the national accord which provides unity and reconciliation in the country. We know that misunderstandings between the different parties have nearly caused division in the country. But we work today to unite,” he told the French daily.

On the issue of the existence of a second government in Libya, Mr. Sarraj said he hopes for an agreement with the other parties to participate in the reconstruction programme as many people oppose the division.

The prime minister however hopes that “the war against terrorism can unite Libya. But it will take some time and the international community knows that. We can then take control of these areas.”

The Libyan national unity government forces announced on Saturday that they have taken over an IS operated air base near Sirte, a stronghold of the terrorist group located 450 kilometers east of Tripoli.

Based in Tripoli for two months now, the new government is recognized by the international community and has the support of former rulers who controlled the capital Tripoli and armed militias in the west.