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Libya Review
2 days ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libya Unveils New Security Plan Against Border Smuggling
The Libyan Illegal Immigration Control Agency held a high-level security meeting at the headquarters of the Libyan Coast Guard, under the General Command of the Libyan Armed Forces. The meeting included the head of the Illegal Immigration Control Agency, Major General Salah Mahmoud Al-Khafeefi, alongside senior officials from the Coast Guard. The meeting was convened under the direct orders of the General Command of the Libyan Armed Forces and direct instructions from the Commander of the Army's Ground Forces, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar. It is part of Libya's ongoing national efforts to secure its borders and curb illegal migration and all forms of cross-border smuggling. During the talks, the parties agreed to establish a joint security room between the two agencies to develop a comprehensive coordination mechanism aimed at tackling illegal migration and dismantling cross-border smuggling networks. This decision comes after the effective deployment of desert patrol units, which have proven successful in covering vast areas of Libya's southern and eastern deserts beyond the positions of the armed forces. The second phase of the security plan will focus on securing and monitoring Libya's coastline through full coordination with the Libyan Armed Forces. This integrated national system will operate from the coast deep into the desert borders, ensuring the protection of Libya's territory and sovereignty. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges. Tags: libyaLibyan armymigrationSaddam HaftarSmuggling


Libya Review
21-06-2025
- Business
- Libya Review
Libyan PM Praises Army's Role in Reconstruction
Libya's Prime Minister-designate, Osama Hammad, opened the third regular Cabinet meeting of 2025 in the city of Derna, commending the ongoing reconstruction and development efforts in areas devastated by the 2023 floods caused by Storm Daniel. Speaking from Derna, Hammad described the city as a 'symbol of resilience and sacrifice' that overcame terrorism thanks to the Libyan Armed Forces and loyal citizens, and is now facing the aftermath of natural disaster with determination. He praised the Libyan Army's role not only in national defense but also in rebuilding critical infrastructure. Hammad highlighted several completed and ongoing strategic projects led by the Libya Reconstruction and Development Fund, covering the eastern, southern, and parts of western Libya. He emphasised that the rebuilding of Derna requires a unique approach, given the human and material losses suffered during the floods. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Libyan military, praising their efforts in developing training bases—such as the Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar Military City—and raising operational readiness. He lauded the army's role in securing Libya's borders and fighting human trafficking and smuggling. Hammad extended thanks to Greece for its assistance during the Storm Daniel crisis, which included humanitarian aid, rescue teams, and medical support. He also acknowledged Greece's cooperation on issues like illegal migration and bilateral diplomatic ties. However, he expressed concern over a recent Greek announcement dated June 12, 2025, inviting international tenders for hydrocarbon exploration in maritime zones south of Crete. Hammad stated that part of the proposed area overlaps Libya's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and asserted Libya's right to explore and utilize its resources under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). To address this issue, Hammad confirmed that the Libyan government has referred its maritime boundary agreement with Turkey to the House of Representatives for consideration. Additionally, a special committee was formed under Cabinet Resolution No. 122 (2025) to review maritime boundaries in the EEZ and all related agreements signed since 2002. Tags: DernalibyaLibyan armyOsama Hammad


Libya Review
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
500 Sudanese Refugees Moved from Jufra to East Libya
The Joint Force of the Illegal Immigration Control Department in Jufra has transferred 500 Sudanese refugees to official shelter centers in Sirte, Ajdabiya, and Benghazi, according to an official statement from the department's media office. This operation, carried out in coordination with the Libyan Armed Forces and the General Directorate of Central Support, aims to provide temporary protection for individuals who fled Sudan due to ongoing conflict and dire humanitarian conditions. The department stated that all relocated refugees were given essential humanitarian assistance, particularly as the transfer coincides with the approach of Eid Al-Adha. Officials noted that the refugees had entered Libya irregularly, escaping violence and instability in Sudan. Authorities assured that the transfers were conducted with full respect for humanitarian principles and security protocols, and stressed that any further decisions about the refugees' status will be made in accordance with national policies and regional developments. The Illegal Immigration Control Department reaffirmed its continued efforts to manage irregular migration in line with both humanitarian considerations and national security requirements, especially for those displaced by conflict in neighboring countries. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges. Tags: libyamigrantsRefugeesSudan