U.S. to exempt Libya from arms embargo

Recognizing the mounting threat by Islamic State, world powers are prepared to support Libya in seeking an exemption from a U.N. arms embargo, said U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. Speaking after a meeting in Vienna, which was attended by diplomats of over 20 countries, Kerry also assured humanitarian aid to Libya, which has been torn by a civil war since 2014. Last month, Libya had expressed concerns of IS taking over the country if the group is not reined in soon.

In Libya, multiple administrations are engaged in armed conflicts, and there is “no clear chain of command”, writes the BBC. The international community has been concerned that “arms may fall into the wrong hands” or they may further fuel the ongoing civil war in the country.

The Prime Minister of Libya's unity government Fayez Sarraj said that he sought international assistance and not “international intervention.” He added that Libyan youths and troops need to be trained and equipped to counter an expanding IS.

The international community’s assurance of political and military support to Libya is a “significant development” for the country, notes Al Jazeera. In the absence of a strong government, Islamic State has flourished, with over 5,000 fighters in the country.