March 7: For Libya, a U.N. Peace Deal Remains Elusive

Libya's political future remains unclear as the House of Representatives repeatedly fails to pass the U.N.-backed Government of National Accord (GNA). Nevertheless, Western militaries are continuing to prepare an international stabilization force for the country. Italy, the United States, the United Kingdom and France are committing more and more military forces to Libya. Previously, government officials and U.N. representatives had insisted that a formal invitation from the GNA would be needed for forces to be sent in. But the increasingly slim possibility of the GNA being established means a more realistic approach, including increasing special forces, identifying local partners, establishing intelligence-finding missions and conducting airstrikes, is needed. Still, Western militaries will proceed cautiously because most Libyans are reluctant to allow foreign soldiers onto Libyan soil....