Libya's High State Council Elects New Leader Amid Deepening Political Gridlock

The Tripoli-based High State Council (HSC) in Libya has elected Mohammed Takala as its new leader, replacing former head Khaled al-Mishri. This development adds further uncertainty to the country's already divided politics. The HSC holds significant influence in political matters and has been negotiating a path to elections with the House of Representatives (HoR). However, the impact of Takala's victory on the HSC's talks with the HoR remains unclear. The international community and the United Nations have emphasized the importance of nationwide elections to end Libya's power vacuum, but rival leaders have failed to agree on election laws. Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, a rival of both al-Mishri and the HoR speaker, congratulated Takala and expressed hope for adherence to the will of the Libyans to hold elections.