EU sanctions Libyan politicians over new government

PanARMENIAN.Net - The European Union has imposed sanctions on three prominent Libyan politicians opposed to the installation of a UN-backed government, BBC News reports.

The sanctions target the leaders of two rival administrations that have been vying for power amid the chaos after the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi.

All three face travel bans and asset freezes.

The measure comes two days after the leaders of a new unity government arrived in the capital, Tripoli.

It is not clear how the new administration, led by the Presidency Council, will be able to take over state institutions there, given the stiff opposition it faces.

Since 2014 Libya has had two competing administrations, one in Tripoli backed by powerful militias and the other about 1,000km (620 miles) away in the eastern port city of Tobruk.

The names were published in the EU's official journal, which said they played a central role in obstructing the establishment of a unity government.

Western powers have recognised the new government as Libya's sole legitimate administration but it faces opposition in eastern and western Libya.

On Thursday, March 31, the UN said it will consider lifting sanctions on Libya's estimated $67bn sovereign wealth fund if the government can regain control of the country.