Speaking about the latest developments in Libya, a French diplomatic source, as quoted by AFP, has rejected allegations that Paris is on the side of Marshal Haftar, stressing that France wasn't aware of his plans to start a military offensive targeting Tripoli.
As the source underlined, Paris is putting the Government of National Accord at the centre of the political process in Libya, explaining that they have tried to persuade Haftar not to launch a fresh military offensive.
READ MORE: Libyan National Army Leaves Tripoli Airport After GNA Airstrikes — Reports
Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been divided into two parts between the GNA that sits in Tripoli and a parallel government, supported by Khalifa Haftar, which runs the east of the country and has recently expanded its control over the south.
Accused by his critics of trying for several years to foment a coup, the marshal was rehabilitated in 2016 by several countries, first and foremost France, especially because of his role in the fight against "terrorist groups" and illegal immigration.
On Saturday, French ambassador to Libya Béatrice le Fraper du Hellen reportedly met with Libyan Prime Minister Fayez Serraj to explain alleged France's support for Haftar as a player in Libya's political settlement.
READ MORE: Haftar's Libyan National Army Gains Control of Yarmuk Military Camp — Source