Pakistan mediating Libya unity push as rival camps seek deal, Pakistani sources say

Pakistan has quietly initiated mediation efforts between Libya's opposing eastern and western factions, according to two Pakistani sources. This previously undisclosed Pakistani endeavor aims to foster a political solution in the North African nation, which has been divided since the 2011 uprising.

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The United States has been pushing hard in Libya, but the format it is trying to impose is still loose and ill-defined.

The Pakistani involvement comes amid ongoing U.S.-led diplomatic pushes to resolve the conflict. Sources indicate that the U.S. is "fully aware and involved" in Pakistan's role, suggesting a coordinated approach. The initiative also reportedly has the backing of Saudi Arabia, a key regional player with long-standing interests in Libya.

According to the Pakistani sources, the mediation efforts began late last year, prompted by requests from both Libyan sides. The specifics of Pakistan's coordination with other regional stakeholders remain unclear. Pakistan's foreign ministry, military, and officials from Libya, Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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The United States has been pushing hard in Libya, but the format it is trying to impose is still loose and ill-defined.

A proposed "Libya Reunification Plan" outlines a 36-month transitional power-sharing arrangement. Under this plan, Abdulhamid Dbeibah, the prime minister of the U.N.-recognized government in western Libya, would continue in his role, while Saddam Haftar, deputy commander of the eastern-based Libyan National Army, would chair the Presidential Council. This arrangement aims to balance the interests of foreign patrons and address disputes over governance and resources, which have previously stalled peace efforts.

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Pakistan would play "an active role in making sure this whole arrangement stays in play"