US Mediation Plan in Libya Aims for Unity Amid Ongoing Political Crisis

On July 8, 2026, the United States announced a mediation plan for Libya, aiming to unify rival factions in a country divided since the 2011 NATO intervention that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. Led by Massad Boulos, a key adviser to former President Trump, this initiative seeks to address Libya's financial crisis and promote cooperation among warring factions.

Understanding the US Mediation Efforts

The US is actively working to bridge the gap between Libya's two main rival administrations: the United Nations-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli and the eastern-based administration led by Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army (LNA). Since 2020, the UN has spearheaded formal mediation, but the US has stepped in as a significant behind-the-scenes broker.

In May 2021, Ambassador Richard Norland was appointed as the US special envoy to Libya, tasked with facilitating dialogue between the factions. Following Trump's second term, Boulos took over this role, focusing on negotiating a unified government among Libya's elite. According to Tim Eaton from Chatham House, the US aims to bring together the Haftar and Dbeibah families to form a cohesive government.

The Current Situation in Libya

Libya has been in turmoil since the NATO-led intervention began on March 19, 2011. After Gaddafi's death in October 2011, the country has experienced a power vacuum, leading to multiple competing governments and armed groups. The GNU, based in western Libya, is recognized internationally but struggles to exert control over significant regions.

In contrast, the LNA, which controls the eastern part of Libya including the strategic port city of Benghazi, has received support from the UAE and Russia. This division has resulted in two parallel governments vying for resources, including oil, as the Central Bank of Libya attempts to finance both.

Key Components of the US Plan

Boulos's plan, unveiled in June 2026, hinges on a crucial promise: if the rival factions agree to govern jointly, the US will encourage investment in Libya's oilfields. The UN recognizes the Tripoli government, meaning any oil deals must be signed with them, yet Haftar's forces control the oil-rich regions.

Analysts suggest that the impending financial crisis and potential for investment may motivate both factions to cooperate. Additionally, leaked details indicate the US has proposed a power-sharing agreement, where Dbeibah would remain in charge while Saddam Haftar, Khalifa Haftar's son, would assume the presidency.

The Controversy Surrounding the Plan

Critics argue that the US's approach could lead to a superficial solution that bypasses the will of the Libyan people. Tarek Megerisi from the European Council of Foreign Relations warns that this power-sharing deal may undermine hopes for democratic elections and solidify an authoritarian regime.

The US's motives in mediating are multifaceted, primarily driven by Libya’s vast oil and gas reserves, the largest in Africa. Dbeibah recently announced a record oil production of 1.37 million barrels per day, highlighting the strategic importance of Libya's resources in the global market.