A report by the United Nations Panel of Experts, issued on Friday, revealed that armed groups in Libya are exploiting the current security and political situation to increase their economic interests. 

The report, a copy of which was obtained by Alwasat and covers the period from April 25, 2022 to July 17, 2023, found that armed groups in Libya have increased their ability to create spaces of immunity for their criminal activities and influence national policies.

It explained that the leaders of armed groups have used their influence not only in regards to the security situation, but also in order to control various aspects of economic and social life.

The military operation that erupted in Zawiya in May reflected the current dynamics between the dominant armed formations in the western region and how they have remained the main forces in the political process, the report said.