Thousands of Libyans have protested against moves by tribal and militant leaders to create a semi-autonomous region in the east of the country.
Tribal and militia leaders announced the move to create the semi-autonomous territory of Cyrenaica on Tuesday.
The move has significant support amongst the population of the east, however many Libyans denounced the move.
Large rallies calling for unity were held in both Tripoli and Benghazi after clerics warned the move could lead to the breakup of Libya.
The head of the regional council seeking autonomy, Ahmed Zubair al-Senussi, told the BBC he was ready to hold talks with the interim leadership of Libya about creating the semi-autonomous territory of Cyrenaica.
However, leader of the National Transitional Council Mustafa Abdel Jalil said national unity would be defended by force if necessary although he called for dialogue on the issue.