New York, Oct 20 (BNO NEWS): United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday said the death of ousted Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi marks 'an historic transition' for Libya and called on all combatants to lay down their arms in peace.

Gaddafi was shot dead on Thursday morning by troops supporting Libya's transitional government as he tried to flee his hometown Sirte. Few details have been released about the circumstances surrounding the death of Gaddafi, who ruled the African country from 1969 until earlier this year.

"You have all seen reports of the death of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi and the end of fighting in Sirte and other cities," Ban said during a news conference. "Clearly, this day marks an historic transition for Libya. In the coming days, we will witness scenes of celebration, as well as grief for those who lost so much."

However, Ban reiterated that Thursday's events are only 'the end of the beginning.' "The road ahead for Libya and its people will be difficult and full of challenges," he said. "Now is the time for all Libyans to come together. Libyans can only realize the promise of the future through national unity and reconciliation."

Ban also urged combatants on all sides to lay down their arms in peace. "This is the time for healing and rebuilding, for generosity of spirit, not for revenge," he said. "As Libya's transitional authorities prepare the way for elections and take the many other steps toward building their new nation, inclusion and pluralism must be the watchwords."

Libya has been engulfed in a civil war since an uprising against Muammar Gaddafi's regime began in mid-February, while pro-Gaddafi forces have been accused of violently cracking down on anti-government protesters. It led to UN Security Council Resolution 1973 which authorized member states to impose a no-fly zone over the North African country and to take 'all necessary measures' to protect civilians.

Ban, speaking on Thursday, said all Libyans must be able to recognize themselves in the nation's transitional and future government. "The high hopes sustained through the long days of revolution and conflict must translate into opportunities and justice for all," he said. "The new United Nations Mission to Libya is on the ground and ready to assist Libya and its people along the path ahead."

It is believed more than 25,000 people have been killed during the civil war.