U.S. and Libya launch power-sharing plan to end conflict

A new U.S.-backed push for a unified Libyan government is gaining traction after years of failed diplomacy and rising violence. The plan aims to merge the country’s two rival administrations—one based in the east, the other in the west—under a single power-sharing deal. For over a decade, Libya has been split between competing governments, militias, and foreign backers, leaving the nation in a state of chronic instability.

The latest diplomatic effort comes as both Washington and Ankara increase pressure on Libyan factions to compromise. The U.S. proposal follows a series of stalled initiatives, including UN-led talks and regional mediation efforts, none of which have succeeded in bridging the divide. Turkey’s involvement adds weight, given its past military and political support for the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity. Yet skepticism remains high. Past attempts at unity have collapsed under the weight of distrust, with each side accusing the other of bad faith.

Recent developments suggest some cautious optimism. In a rare show of cooperation, rival leaders have agreed to preliminary talks on economic reforms and ceasefire monitoring. But deep rifts persist. The eastern-based Libyan National Army, led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, controls key oil fields and has resisted sharing power. Meanwhile, the western government, backed by militias and Turkey, fears losing influence over security and finance. Analysts warn that without enforceable guarantees, any deal could unravel—paving the way for more fighting.

Diplomats and observers say the stakes are higher than ever. Libya holds Africa’s largest oil reserves, and sustained conflict could disrupt global energy markets. A lasting power-sharing deal would not only stabilize the country but also curb the influence of foreign powers like Russia and the UAE, which have backed opposing factions. Yet without real concessions from both sides, the risk of renewed war—and further fragmentation—remains dangerously real.