Successive U.S. administrations have sought to prevent terrorist groups from interfering in the Libyan conflict, a recent report for the U.S. Congress says.
The report noted the Biden administration's support for holding new elections in Libya, indicating that Washington may use its influence to support the United Nations to lead mediation to this end.
It also confirmed ongoing consultations within the U.S. administration regarding the full return of diplomatic representation in Libya, with increasing demands from members of Congress for greater involvement in the country.
The report said that the ongoing legal disputes over the criteria for running for the presidential elections between Libya's House of Representatives and the High Council of State have led to the postponement of the elections.
"U.N. and U.S. reporting describe transnational terrorist threats in Libya as reduced and contained. Successive U.S. Administrations have sought to foster the departure from Libya of foreign military forces and mercenaries," the two-page report stated.
It further pointed out that Libya has the largest proven crude oil reserves in Africa, but conflict, political rivalry, and neglected infrastructure impedes the energy sector’s operations and limit its potential.
