logo
#

Latest news with #OperationIrini

Greek Navy Joins EU Push to Stop Migration from Libya
Greek Navy Joins EU Push to Stop Migration from Libya

Libya Review

time30-06-2025

  • Politics
  • Libya Review

Greek Navy Joins EU Push to Stop Migration from Libya

In a decisive move, Greece has deployed two naval frigates to patrol international waters near Libya aimed at thwarting irregular migrant crossings to islands like Crete and Gavdos. According to local media, including Kathimerini, the warships are equipped with advanced sensors and radars to detect vessels linked to smuggler networks operating in the Central Mediterranean. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the deployment following a surge in migrant departures from eastern Libya—many escaping conflict zones such as Sudan and the Middle East—as part of broader efforts to protect national borders and maintain regional stability. Once suspicious boats are spotted, the navy flags the vessels and coordinates with Libyan authorities to intercept them before they enter international search-and-rescue zones. Due to their size, Greek frigates refrain from direct interception, instead acting as deterrents while maintaining constant surveillance. This action aligns with similar EU maritime security initiatives like Frontex's Operation Themis and the naval Operation Irini enforcing the UN arms embargo on Libya. Critics caution that the emphasis on containment may clash with international legal obligations against 'pushbacks,' particularly if migrant vessels are turned back without proper screening or assistance. Experts note the move comes amidst a coordinated strategy: an EU delegation—including migration ministers from Greece, Italy, and Malta—is set to visit Libya in early July to enhance cooperation on migration management. Tags: euGreecelibyamigrants

UN Extends Libya Arms Embargo Ship Inspection Mandate
UN Extends Libya Arms Embargo Ship Inspection Mandate

Libya Review

time30-05-2025

  • Politics
  • Libya Review

UN Extends Libya Arms Embargo Ship Inspection Mandate

The United Nations Security Council has extended its authorisation for member states and regional organisations to inspect vessels suspected of violating the arms embargo on Libya. The extension, granted under Resolution 2780, will last for six more months. The draft resolution was submitted by France and Greece and adopted with 13 votes in favour. However, both Russia and China abstained, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the mandate. They voiced particular scepticism about the European Union's Operation Irini, which remains the only active naval mission conducting inspections. Russia and China also expressed reservations about the disposal mechanisms for seized materials, questioning transparency and accountability in the process. The resolution allows UN member states and regional bodies, including Operation Irini, to inspect vessels in international waters heading to or from Libya. Such inspections can be carried out if there are reasonable grounds to believe the ships are carrying arms or related materials in breach of the international embargo. The arms embargo on Libya has been in place since 2011, following the uprising that led to the ousting of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi. In 2016, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2292, expanding the mandate to include maritime inspections to ensure compliance. Operation Irini, launched in 2020 by the European Union, has been the primary tool for maritime enforcement of the embargo. Despite its efforts, the operation has faced criticism from some quarters for allegedly being selective in its targeting and limited in scope. The renewed resolution also requests UN Secretary-General António Guterres to submit a report within five months detailing the implementation of the mandate and its outcomes. The extension of the mandate comes amid ongoing instability in Libya, with rival factions still vying for control. Tags: Arms EmbargoIRINIlibyaSecurity Councilun

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store