In April, the Trump administration appointed Massad Boulos as its senior advisor for Africa, prompting skepticism in Washington.
Critics pointed out Boulos’s limited diplomatic experience, questioned the clarity of his role, and noted that his family ties, particularly being Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law, appeared to be a significant factor in his selection.
However, Boulos has since utilized these connections to further US interests, notably by facilitating the June 27 negotiation of the “Washington Agreement” between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In July, he conducted a series of meetings across North Africa, providing a promising step towards the resolution of issues in Libya, contingent on the administration’s follow-through.
Currently, Libya is experiencing a delicate calm.
The Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli and the Libyan National Army (LNA) in the east have stabilized their regions amid a backdrop of political rivalry.
Yet, central challenges remain, including political fragmentation, weak state structures, and the ongoing influence of foreign powers such as Russia.
The danger of human migration continues, with desperate individuals risking their lives to cross the Mediterranean.
Nevertheless, with the 2020 cease-fire between the GNU and LNA maintaining its hold, the US has a critical opportunity to engage in diplomatic efforts.
US policy towards Libya has transformed since the tragic death of Ambassador Chris Stevens in Benghazi in 2012.
Under the Biden administration, there has been a push to deepen engagement, exemplified by the release of a ten-year plan in March 2023 aimed at mitigating conflict and fostering stability in Libya.
Additionally, by March 2024, plans to reopen the US embassy in Tripoli were communicated to Congress.
Taking these initiatives further, during the Trump administration’s first seven months, significant actions were undertaken to build on previous efforts.
April saw the USS Mount Whitney visit Libya, marking the first US naval presence in the region in over fifty years.
In July, Boulos was dispatched to key locations including Tripoli, Benghazi, Tunisia, Algeria, and Egypt, signaling the administration’s commitment to seeking peace and stability in Libya.
While initial critiques about Boulos’s connections and experience lingered, he has successfully leveraged them to navigate complex diplomatic waters.
Many regional counterparts, accustomed to dealing with influential familial networks, recognize that these trusted relationships can facilitate authority and access.
Boulos, poised to provide innovative solutions, holds crucial authority at a time when Libya needs it most.
His prior success with regional issues illustrates his capability to draw White House attention to intricate matters.
The continuation and future progress in Libya hinge on the ability of career government officials and military personnel to engage diplomatically, maintain security partnerships, and fulfill economic commitments.
These officials possess invaluable regional knowledge and expertise that can support the administration’s objectives, and it is essential they receive the necessary backing to advance US interests.
To capitalize on the unique advantages provided by Boulos in tandem with experienced diplomats and military leaders, the Trump administration can consider four strategic actions to bolster ties with Libya.
First, appointing a permanent ambassador to Libya is vital.
The Senate must expedite the confirmation of a suitable candidate to succeed Richard Norland, who left the position in 2022.
Although chargé d’affaires have historically managed critical services, they lack the same level of access and influence as a Senate-confirmed ambassador.
The next ambassador should focus on reopening the US embassy in Tripoli, establishing a continual in-country presence that signals a commitment to enhancing US-Libya relations.
Until this goal is fully realized, the US should sustain and possibly intensify the frequency of its in-country engagements, ensuring a persistent diplomatic atmosphere.
Second, the administration needs a well-defined public information campaign outlining US policy objectives for Libya.
This effort should clearly communicate to Libyan stakeholders that the US is invested in improving relations while simultaneously reinforcing to global actors that the US prioritizes Libya’s stability and economic opportunities.
Historically, the Trump administration has effectively managed information dissemination about various policies, which could translate well into a clear articulation of US support for peace efforts and business interests in Libya.
Such messaging would bolster confidence among the Libyan populace, encouraging them to embrace US policies that may favor their long-term prospects and influencing allies to align with US positions on related matters.
Thirdly, the Department of Defense and Department of State should pursue heightened engagement with defense and law enforcement entities across GNU and LNA-held territories.
Opportunities exist for US forces to learn from Libyan counterparts, who have successfully engaged counter-terrorism operations under resource constraints.
Collaborating with Libyan forces can yield strategic benefits in combating terrorism and countering Russian influence in the region.
Thus, the administration should allocate resources to support security cooperation and assistance to Libyan military forces, which, despite requiring US taxpayer investment, promise returns in counter-terrorism efficacy and stability.
Lastly, the Trump administration, with Boulos at the forefront, should leverage connections within the US private sector, especially in oil and gas, to forge relationships with Libyan businesses.
Libya’s vast oil wealth and its historical significance in Africa remain underutilized due to ongoing conflict, but rekindling this sector could restore its influence and economic vitality.
In addition, employing the Voluntary Principles Initiative could enhance respect for human and labor rights within Libya, reducing risks while generating value for both Libyans and US companies operating in the region.
The Trump administration has a unique capacity for political and economic negotiations in global markets, positioning North Africa as a focal point for future efforts.
Boulos’s familial ties to Trump provide an advantageous platform for facilitating discussions that could enhance stability and foster economic opportunities in Libya.
The administration should therefore support Boulos’s continued engagement, aligning his initiatives with key US national interests relating to security and economic growth.
Furthermore, it is crucial for career diplomats and military personnel to be empowered and sufficiently resourced to implement and sustain these diplomatic initiatives effectively.
Without concerted efforts to uphold diplomatic progress, the gains achieved through the administration’s peacemaking endeavors risk being overshadowed before they can yield substantive results.
image source from：atlanticcouncil
