Libya crisis worsens as rival government takes oath

FILE PHOTO: Fathi Bashagha, designated as prime minister by the parliament, delivers a speech at Mitiga International Airport, in Tripoli, Libya February 10, 2022. Picture taken February 10, 2022. REUTERS/Hazem Ahmed

BENGHAZI, Libya (Reuters) - A standoff between two rival governments in Libya worsened on Thursday with the risk of fighting or territorial division as the parliament in the east swore in a new administration while the incumbent in Tripoli refused to cede power.

Addressing the parliament after taking the oath of office, Fathi Bashagha said he was studying all options to take over in Tripoli. The present prime minister there, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, has said he will not hand over control.