Pakistan Quietly Mediates Libya Unity Talks amid Rival Power Split

Pakistan has quietly begun mediating between Libya’s rival eastern and western power centres in a previously unreported diplomatic effort to advance unity talks and a potential transitional settlement, two Pakistani sources have told Reuters.

The sources said the initiative, which began late last year, is part of broader international efforts to bridge Libya’s long-running political divide, and would significantly raise Pakistan’s diplomatic profile if it succeeds. According to the same sources, both Libyan sides requested Islamabad’s involvement.

Pakistan’s emerging mediation role in Libya conflict

The Pakistani involvement comes amid a wider US-backed push to find a political solution in Libya, which has remained divided between rival administrations since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi, the sources told Reuters.

One Pakistani source said the United States was “fully aware and involved” in Islamabad’s role, while also noting that Saudi Arabia has supported the mediation effort. Pakistan has recently expanded its diplomatic footprint through parallel engagements, including reported facilitation efforts between Washington and Tehran earlier this year.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry, military media wing, and Libyan officials from both east and west did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters.

US-backed framework and regional backing for talks

The initiative is reportedly unfolding alongside US-led diplomatic activity to stabilize Libya’s fractured political system. Analysts claim Washington has been attempting to push a more structured settlement framework, though key details remain unsettled.

According to Pakistani sources cited by Reuters, the effort has also received backing from Saudi Arabia, which has long sought influence in Libya’s political and economic landscape. Qatar and Turkey, both key supporters of Libya’s western-based authorities, were also said to have encouraged Pakistan’s involvement.

However, it remains unclear how closely Pakistan is coordinating with other regional actors involved in Libya’s competing power networks.