The United Nations Security Council has extended the authorization for member states to inspect ships suspected of violating the arms embargo on Libya. The resolution, approved on Tuesday, renews the permission for six months and applies to vessels located on the high seas off Libya’s coast. The measure was adopted with 13 votes in favor, while Russia and China abstained.

The international community remains committed to limiting the flow of weapons that fuel conflict and instability in Libya, according to the representative of the United Kingdom. The arms embargo, which was imposed in 2011 during the revolution that ousted former leader Muammar Gaddafi, is considered essential to prevent sporadic clashes, particularly in the Tripoli region.

The French representative to the Council described the embargo as crucial, and the French delegation co-wrote the new resolution alongside Greece. Both countries are part of the European Union’s Operation IRINI, the only Council-mandated mission to inspect vessels suspected of violating the embargo along Libya’s coast. Greece’s representative praised Operation IRINI as an impartial and unique instrument, and the primary tool for maritime enforcement of the embargo.

However, several states, including Algeria and China, have criticized the operation over insufficient transparency and effectiveness. China’s representative urged the Council to consider the views of Libya and other relevant parties, assess Operation IRINI’s mandate, and make timely adjustments and improvements as necessary.

The Security Council first authorized vessel inspections to implement the embargo in 2016. The resolution’s adoption sends a clear message that the international community is committed to enforcing the arms embargo and preventing the flow of weapons that fuel conflict in Libya. The extension of the authorization is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to maintain stability in the region.

The arms embargo is part of a broader set of sanctions imposed on Libya in 2011. The international community’s commitment to enforcing the embargo is critical to preventing the escalation of conflict and promoting peace and stability in the region. As the situation in Libya continues to evolve, the United Nations Security Council will likely remain engaged in efforts to maintain peace and security in the country.