ABSTRACT This study analyzes Libya's ongoing political fragmentation and conflict dynamics to inform effective US foreign policy strategies. Utilizing comprehensive historical, geopolitical, and conflict data, the research examines the causes of persistent instability, including tribal divisions, foreign interference, and resource control. Libya illustrates how a historically divided, never‐fully unified state has become an arena for internationalized intrastate conflict and great‐power rivalry, suggesting that US policy should acknowledge enduring East–West divisions within Libya and adopt pragmatic engagement strategies rather than relying on traditional nation‐state assumptions. The implications highlight the necessity for targeted diplomatic engagement that balances support for influential regional leaders while addressing underlying governance weaknesses. Recognizing Libya's strategic importance and complex internal dynamics is crucial for shaping policies that promote stability, energy security, and regional cooperation, underscoring the importance of nuanced approaches in managing multipolar conflicts in fragile states.
Burrell et al. (2026) studied this question.