ALGIERS, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Algeria on Tuesday voiced deep concern over violent overnight clashes in the Libyan capital Tripoli, urging rival armed factions to resolve their disputes through dialogue.
In a statement, Algeria's Foreign Ministry said the latest fighting had resulted in casualties and squandered Libya's "precious resources for nothing." It called on all Libyan parties to put national interests first, commit to dialogue, and support the UN-led political process aimed at reaching a lasting solution.
"Libya today needs unity and reconciliation, away from the logic of division and discord," the statement said.
Heavy clashes broke out late Monday between rival militias in Tripoli, amid reports of the death of Abdul Ghani al-Kikli, known as "Ghaniwa," who was the head of the Stability Support Apparatus, a powerful militant group affiliated with the Presidency Council.
At least six people were killed in the fighting, according to Libya's Emergency Medicine and Support Center. The Interior Ministry, based in Tripoli, said on Tuesday that order had been restored in the capital.
Libya has been mired in political turmoil and insecurity since the 2011 overthrow of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi. The country remains split between rival administrations: an eastern-based government in Tobruk backed by the House of Representatives, and a western-based government in Tripoli aligned with the UN-recognized Presidency Council. ■
