France 24: Italy on Sunday said it was willing to lead an international coalition against jihadists in Libya, as it began repatriating its citizens from the troubled north African country amid security concerns.

Italy on Sunday closed its embassy in Libya, one of the last European missions in the troubled country. About 100 Italians were evacuated on a vessel escorted by the navy, the foreign ministry said.

Rome on Friday warned its nationals against travelling to Libya and urged those already there to leave in the face of mounting insecurity as jihadists gain ground.