Libya has witnessed years of fighting and political instability since 2011 when its leader, Muammar Gaddafi, was captured and killed.&nbsp;But the uncertain security situation has led to another consequence – Libya's rise as a transit hub for cocaine and synthetic drugs supplied to North Africa, West Asia and Europe.&nbsp;For instance, a security agency of the government of national unity seized a shipment of a staggering one hundred thousand ecstasy pills, which arrived at a Libyan port via a European country.&nbsp;Images showed the seizure of sacks of brown pellets moulded into the shape of Gaddafi's head and shoulders.&nbsp;These pills were hidden in a cargo van.&nbsp;According to the authorities, they got a tip that a gang was planning to transport the drugs by sea and tracked the shipment until it arrived.&nbsp;Now, the instability in Libya is evident from the presence of two competing power centres.&nbsp;The government of national unity led by PM Abdul Hamid Al Da-Baiba is the internationally and un-recognised government, which controls capital Tripoli and the Northwestern region.&nbsp;On the other hand, the Libyan National Army, led by its commander-in-chief Khalifa Haftar, controls major parts of the country, including most of its oil fields and key infrastructure.&nbsp;Two weeks ago, representatives of these rival factions signed an un-backed deal to hold legislative and presidential elections under a single executive authority within a period of two years.&nbsp;According to a report published by the UN office on drugs and crime in January 2026, the political instability since 2011 enabled the rapid growth of drug trafficking, as well as domestic consumption of drugs in Libya.&nbsp;This report blamed people's economic hardship and unemployment hovering at around 15 to 19 percent for this situation.&nbsp;It also highlighted that cocaine worth nearly 7.8 million US dollars was seized in 2024 alone.&nbsp;But what makes this country a hub for drug trafficking?&nbsp;According to this report, Libya offers a cheaper and easier alternative for transit, storage and distribution of drugs across the region and beyond.&nbsp;It reportedly hosts a number of warehouses where different types and large volumes of drugs are stored.&nbsp;But, is there a plan to counter this?&nbsp;The UN recommended Libya to take a number of steps such as enhancing inter-institutional mechanisms, calibrating criminal justice system towards a long-term reduction of drug markets and scaling up eEfforts to counter corruption.&nbsp;However, with the fractured governance structure in Libya, the fight against drugs appears to be a tall order...

A security agency of the government of national unity seized a shipment of a staggering one hundred thousand ecstasy pills, which arrived at a Libyan port via a European country. Images showed the seizure of sacks of brown pellets moulded into the shape of Gaddafi's head and shoulders.

Libya has witnessed years of fighting and political instability since 2011 when its leader, Muammar Gaddafi, was captured and killed. But the uncertain security situation has led to another consequence – Libya's rise as a transit hub for cocaine and synthetic drugs supplied to North Africa, West Asia and Europe. For instance, a security agency of the government of national unity seized a shipment of a staggering one hundred thousand ecstasy pills, which arrived at a Libyan port via a European country. Images showed the seizure of sacks of brown pellets moulded into the shape of Gaddafi's head and shoulders. These pills were hidden in a cargo van. According to the authorities, they got a tip that a gang was planning to transport the drugs by sea and tracked the shipment until it arrived. Now, the instability in Libya is evident from the presence of two competing power centres. The government of national unity led by PM Abdul Hamid Al Da-Baiba is the internationally and un-recognised government, which controls capital Tripoli and the Northwestern region. On the other hand, the Libyan National Army, led by its commander-in-chief Khalifa Haftar, controls major parts of the country, including most of its oil fields and key infrastructure. Two weeks ago, representatives of these rival factions signed an un-backed deal to hold legislative and presidential elections under a single executive authority within a period of two years. According to a report published by the UN office on drugs and crime in January 2026, the political instability since 2011 enabled the rapid growth of drug trafficking, as well as domestic consumption of drugs in Libya. This report blamed people's economic hardship and unemployment hovering at around 15 to 19 percent for this situation. It also highlighted that cocaine worth nearly 7.8 million US dollars was seized in 2024 alone. But what makes this country a hub for drug trafficking? According to this report, Libya offers a cheaper and easier alternative for transit, storage and distribution of drugs across the region and beyond. It reportedly hosts a number of warehouses where different types and large volumes of drugs are stored. But, is there a plan to counter this? The UN recommended Libya to take a number of steps such as enhancing inter-institutional mechanisms, calibrating criminal justice system towards a long-term reduction of drug markets and scaling up eEfforts to counter corruption. However, with the fractured governance structure in Libya, the fight against drugs appears to be a tall order...

A security agency of the government of national unity seized a shipment of a staggering one hundred thousand ecstasy pills, which arrived at a Libyan port via a European country. Images showed the seizure of sacks of brown pellets moulded into the shape of Gaddafi's head and shoulders.

Ecstasy tablets are rage in 'drug haven' Libya | Gravitas

One might wonder what's common between Muammar &nbsp;Gaddafi and ecstasy pills, but a recent haul of the party drug bearing the visage of the late Libyan leader is bringing to focus Libya's emerging role as a narcotics hub. Authorities of the north African nation recently seized about 100,000 ecstasy pills moulded in the shape of Gaddafi’s face, hair and famous Bedouin robes. The shipment came by sea from an unnamed European country, reported Reuters and other outlets.<h2>How the Gaddafi-shaped ecstasy shipment was seized</h2>The reports said that security agents received a tip-off that a gang planned to move the drugs by sea, and tracked the shipment until it reached a Libyan port. Officers intercepted a cargo van and found the pills hidden inside, said Al Rada for Combating Terrorism and Organised Crime. About 100,000 XTC pills were seized and suspects referred to prosecutors. The pills were brown and moulded with Gaddafi’s distinctive features.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-plays-mediator-in-libya-even-as-internal-turmoil-grows-1783447906410/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-plays-mediator-in-libya-even-as-internal-turmoil-grows-1783447906410/embed</a><h2>After Gaddafi's death, Libya became a transit hub for synthetic drugs</h2>Gaddafi was one of the last-standing dictators who fell in the wake of the Arab Spring-inspired protests of 2010-11. He was captured and killed by rebel fighters helped by US-led NATO forces in October 2011. Since his death, Libya has been ravaged by instability and civil conflict.Currently, it is a de facto divided state, with the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity controlling the west, and forces linked to Khalifa Haftar in the east and much of the south.Amid this, the narcotic underworld appears to have grown. The seizure of ‘Gaddafi pills’ highlights Libya’s growing role as a transit hub for synthetic drugs and other narcotics moving across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and beyond.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sarah-khalifa-death-sentence-egypt-drug-case-1788703881351">Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in major drug case</a><h2>Libya, the regional narco hub: From cannabis to cocaine and synthetics</h2>The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a report this January that Libya had become a major transit hub for synthetic drugs and other narcotics. Trafficking networks have exploited Libya’s fragmented governance, porous borders, long coastline and weak institutions.Cannabis resin, cocaine, MDMA/ecstasy, Captagon and illicitly sourced pharmaceuticals are moving through Libya. The trafficking networks connect suppliers in the Americas with markets in Western and South-Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.Cocaine shipments now arrive directly from Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil at Libyan ports. Consignments move through West African ports and overland routes across Niger and Chad.In 2024, &nbsp;cocaine seizures in Libya were estimated to have street value of up to $7.8 million.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/love-lies-narcotics-police-uncover-plot-to-frame-newlywed-husband-in-kashmir-1786372376796">Love, lies &amp; narcotics: Police uncover plot to frame newlywed husband in Kashmir</a><h2>Ecstasy, pharmaceuticals and synthetic drugs surge in Libya</h2>This is not the first time in recent years that synthetic drugs were seized in Libya. In March 2023, authorities seized 1.7 million ecstasy tablets at Misrata port in five second-hand cars aboard a commercial vessel. Another 600,300 tablets were later seized from the same vessel at Benghazi.Pharmaceutical trafficking is also widespread, with more than 4 million tramadol pills seized in 2023. Benghazi authorities found 15 million pregabalin tablets in 2023 and another 8.6 million in January 2024, having a combined black-market retail value of around &nbsp;$34.5 million.<h2>Libya, a new narco state in the making?</h2>Over the past decade, Libyan ports such as Misrata, Benghazi, al-Khoms and Tobruk have become key entry and redistribution points.Drug trafficking in Libya is slowly becoming a lucrative, albeit dangerous industry, if one goes by the reports. The clandestine industry overlaps with migrant smuggling. Proceeds from narcotics are fuelling firearms trafficking and illicit currency markets. Armed groups are being strengthened, further weakening Libya’s national institutions. &nbsp;

The recent seizure of ecstasy pills moulded with Muammar Gaddafi’s face highlights Libya's growing role as a transit hub for synthetic drugs moving between Europe, Africa and the Americas. Is the strife-torn north African nation turning into a narco-state?

One might wonder what's common between Muammar Gaddafi and ecstasy pills, but a recent haul of the party drug bearing the visage of the late Libyan leader is bringing to focus Libya's emerging role as a narcotics hub. Authorities of the north African nation recently seized about 100,000 ecstasy pills moulded in the shape of Gaddafi’s face, hair and famous Bedouin robes. The shipment came by sea from an unnamed European country, reported Reuters and other outlets. How the Gaddafi-shaped ecstasy shipment was seized The reports said that security agents received a tip-off that a gang planned to move the drugs by sea, and tracked the shipment until it reached a Libyan port. Officers intercepted a cargo van and found the pills hidden inside, said Al Rada for Combating Terrorism and Organised Crime. About 100,000 XTC pills were seized and suspects referred to prosecutors. The pills were brown and moulded with Gaddafi’s distinctive features. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-plays-mediator-in-libya-even-as-internal-turmoil-grows-1783447906410/embed After Gaddafi's death, Libya became a transit hub for synthetic drugs Gaddafi was one of the last-standing dictators who fell in the wake of the Arab Spring-inspired protests of 2010-11. He was captured and killed by rebel fighters helped by US-led NATO forces in October 2011. Since his death, Libya has been ravaged by instability and civil conflict. Currently, it is a de facto divided state, with the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity controlling the west, and forces linked to Khalifa Haftar in the east and much of the south. Amid this, the narcotic underworld appears to have grown. The seizure of ‘Gaddafi pills’ highlights Libya’s growing role as a transit hub for synthetic drugs and other narcotics moving across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and beyond. Also read: Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in major drug case Libya, the regional narco hub: From cannabis to cocaine and synthetics The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a report this January that Libya had become a major transit hub for synthetic drugs and other narcotics. Trafficking networks have exploited Libya’s fragmented governance, porous borders, long coastline and weak institutions. Cannabis resin, cocaine, MDMA/ecstasy, Captagon and illicitly sourced pharmaceuticals are moving through Libya. The trafficking networks connect suppliers in the Americas with markets in Western and South-Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Cocaine shipments now arrive directly from Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil at Libyan ports. Consignments move through West African ports and overland routes across Niger and Chad. In 2024, cocaine seizures in Libya were estimated to have street value of up to $7.8 million. Also read: Love, lies & narcotics: Police uncover plot to frame newlywed husband in Kashmir Ecstasy, pharmaceuticals and synthetic drugs surge in Libya This is not the first time in recent years that synthetic drugs were seized in Libya. In March 2023, authorities seized 1.7 million ecstasy tablets at Misrata port in five second-hand cars aboard a commercial vessel. Another 600,300 tablets were later seized from the same vessel at Benghazi. Pharmaceutical trafficking is also widespread, with more than 4 million tramadol pills seized in 2023. Benghazi authorities found 15 million pregabalin tablets in 2023 and another 8.6 million in January 2024, having a combined black-market retail value of around $34.5 million. Libya, a new narco state in the making? Over the past decade, Libyan ports such as Misrata, Benghazi, al-Khoms and Tobruk have become key entry and redistribution points. Drug trafficking in Libya is slowly becoming a lucrative, albeit dangerous industry, if one goes by the reports. The clandestine industry overlaps with migrant smuggling. Proceeds from narcotics are fuelling firearms trafficking and illicit currency markets. Armed groups are being strengthened, further weakening Libya’s national institutions.

The recent seizure of ecstasy pills moulded with Muammar Gaddafi’s face highlights Libya's growing role as a transit hub for synthetic drugs moving between Europe, Africa and the Americas. Is the strife-torn north African nation turning into a narco-state?

‘Gaddafi ecstasy pills’ highlight Libya’s growing role in drug trafficking in Africa, Europe and beyond

Libya has declared a state of emergency after a suspected drone strike destroyed a major fuel storage tank at the Zawiya oil refinery in the west. The National Oil Corporation has called for an investigation into the incident.

Libya: state of emergency declared, NOC calls for investigation

On March 20 2011, B-2s flew 25 hours from Missouri and destroyed 22 Libyan aircraft on the ground. Nobody in Libya saw them coming. Here is how the mission worked and why it mattered.

On March 20, 2011, the United States joined NATO's intervention in Libya's civil war. The first strikes of Operation Odyssey Dawn were not launched from an aircraft carrier off the coast or from a base in Europe.&nbsp;

'Night to Libya And Back': How US opened a war nobody expected with a plane nobody saw coming

As per reports, Pakistan has begun mediating between Libya's two main rival power centres. At a time when it is facing internal turmoil, Pakistan is trying to broker a 36-month power-sharing arrangement in Libya.


pakistan plays 'mediator' in Libya even as internal turmoil grows

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, was killed on February 3, 2026, when armed men stormed his residence in Zintan, western Libya, shooting the 53-year-old dead.


Reports: Armed Men Killed Son of Muammar Gaddafi at Home

Muammar Gaddafi’s son has been killed in Zintan, near Tripoli, Libya. This incident comes amid ongoing political instability and armed conflicts in the region. The killing of a high-profile figure related to Libya’s former regime has sparked international attention and raised concerns about escalating tensions.

Muammar Gaddafi’s Son Killed in Zintan Near Tripoli

Pakistan is reportedly expanding its military footprint into North Africa with a $4 billion deal to supply JF‑17 fighter jets and trainer aircraft to Libya’s Eastern National Army. The move, coming despite a UN arms embargo and ongoing political turmoil at home, highlights Islamabad’s ambitions to become a major global arms supplier. Critics warn this development could destabilize Libya, fuel conflict, and threaten regional security.


Pakistan’s Africa Push: Gen Munir Meets Libya's Haftar Amid $4 Bn Arms Deal Reports 

Libya’s eastern military commander Khalifa Haftar visited Pakistan and met Army Chief Asim Munir at Noor Khan Air Base, pledging deeper defence collaboration weeks after signing a $4 billion arms deal, highlighting strengthened military ties between the two nations.


Pakistan-Libya Signed $4 Billion Defence Deal, Libya's Haftar Meets Pak's Munir In Rawalpindi 

Libyan Chief of Staff Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad died in a plane crash in Turkey. Officials mourn the loss along with other high-ranking military personnel on board.

Turkey Plane Crash: Libyan Chief of Staff Dies in Turkey Plane Crash | Officials Mourn

The Libyan Army’s chief of staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad, and four other military officials were killed in a tragic plane crash while returning from Turkey’s capital Ankara on Tuesday, said Libya’s Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah.

Libya Plane Crash in Turkey Kills Libya Army Chief, Four Others | Investigation Ongoing

Libyan Army Chief, 4 Others Killed in Plane Crash in Turkey; Probe Underway

Pakistan has reportedly signed a major weapons deal with eastern Libya’s Libyan National Army, openly defying a long-standing United Nations arms embargo on the conflict-torn country. Islamabad has described the agreement as a strategic breakthrough, even as Pakistan faces significant economic challenges at home.

The reported deal, said to be worth billions, has raised serious concerns among international observers and diplomats, given Libya’s ongoing instability and the strict UN restrictions on military transfers. The development has renewed scrutiny of regional arms flows, sanctions enforcement, and Pakistan’s evolving defence export strategy.

Islamabad Signs Major Weapons Deal With Libya Despite UN Arms Embargo

Munir advises Libya against relying on Western powers and assures that Pakistan will provide any assistance needed. The statement emphasizes Pakistan’s willingness to support Libya’s development and security needs independently.

Asim Munir Tells Libya Not to Depend on Western Powers, Offers Pakistan’s Support

Libya’s National Museum has reopened to the public for the first time since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, following extensive renovation work that began in March 2023, marking a major step in preserving the country’s cultural heritage.


Libya's National Museum reopens after renovations 

An Indian couple, along with their three-year-old daughter, were allegedly taken hostage in Libya for a ransom of Rs 2 crore ($240,000) while they were trying to immigrate to Portugal. Kismatsinh Chavda, his wife Heenaben and their daughter Devanshi were kidnapped in the North African country.&nbsp;The family was taken hostage in Libya while they were going to Portugal, where Kismatsinh's brother lives, according to Mehsana Superintendent of police Himanshu Solanki.&nbsp;The family's journey began on November 19 without a valid visa from Gujarat's Ahmedabad to Dubai. From there, they travelled to Benghazi city in Libya, where they were kidnapped before reaching their next destination. The couple was helped by a Portugal-based agent who is not Indian, Solanki said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-declares-bondi-beach-shooting-a-terrorism-incident-1765709205303">Australia declares Bondi Beach shooting 'A TERRORISM INCIDENT'</a>&nbsp;The family was planning to settle in a European nation and embarked on a journey to reach Portugal without proper documents through unusual routes. The kidnappers contacted their relatives in Mehsand and demanded a ransom of Rs 2 crore, which led the relatives to approach the authorities, including district collector SK Parjapati, for help on Friday.&nbsp;Solanki said that the state government and the Ministry of External Affairs have been apprised of the incident

The couple wanted to settle in Portugal and were travelling with the help of a Portugal-based agent when they were kidnapped.

An Indian couple, along with their three-year-old daughter, were allegedly taken hostage in Libya for a ransom of Rs 2 crore ($240,000) while they were trying to immigrate to Portugal. Kismatsinh Chavda, his wife Heenaben and their daughter Devanshi were kidnapped in the North African country. The family was taken hostage in Libya while they were going to Portugal, where Kismatsinh's brother lives, according to Mehsana Superintendent of police Himanshu Solanki. The family's journey began on November 19 without a valid visa from Gujarat's Ahmedabad to Dubai. From there, they travelled to Benghazi city in Libya, where they were kidnapped before reaching their next destination. The couple was helped by a Portugal-based agent who is not Indian, Solanki said. Also Read: Australia declares Bondi Beach shooting 'A TERRORISM INCIDENT' The family was planning to settle in a European nation and embarked on a journey to reach Portugal without proper documents through unusual routes. The kidnappers contacted their relatives in Mehsand and demanded a ransom of Rs 2 crore, which led the relatives to approach the authorities, including district collector SK Parjapati, for help on Friday. Solanki said that the state government and the Ministry of External Affairs have been apprised of the incident

The couple wanted to settle in Portugal and were travelling with the help of a Portugal-based agent when they were kidnapped.

Indian couple, 3-year-old daughter taken hostage in Libya while going to Portugal

Libyan authorities confirmed rescuing at least 35 migrants near the Tunisian border. Watch the video the know more on this! 

Libya: At Least 35 Migrants Saved Near Tunisian Border 

In a video that has gone viral on social media, a wealthy Libyan man releases his pet lion on his employee. The shocking act, as revealed on camera, has drawn a serious reaction from netizens.The employee can be seen visibly distraught and running around to save himself. However, the owner can be seen drawing amusement from the situation and preventing him from. This disturbing abuse of power has sparked outrage from people online. This vile act is dehumanisation and the peak of class&nbsp; discrimination

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A rich man in Libya unleashed his lion on one of his employees just for amusement — what kind of sick, cruel mindset is this? <a href="https://t.co/YlbxJg25I0">pic.twitter.com/YlbxJg25I0</a>&mdash; Sahar Emami (@iamSaharEmami) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamSaharEmami/status/1941219952939426206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A shocking video shows a lion attacking a man. The video, which went viral, is drawing significant criticism about the demeaning and dehumanising living situation of lower-class workers in third-world countries.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, a wealthy Libyan man releases his pet lion on his employee. The shocking act, as revealed on camera, has drawn a serious reaction from netizens. The employee can be seen visibly distraught and running around to save himself. However, the owner can be seen drawing amusement from the situation and preventing him from. This disturbing abuse of power has sparked outrage from people online. This vile act is dehumanisation and the peak of class discrimination

A shocking video shows a lion attacking a man. The video, which went viral, is drawing significant criticism about the demeaning and dehumanising living situation of lower-class workers in third-world countries.

WATCH | Libyan firm owner releases his pet lion on employee for his amusement

#GRAVITAS | Heavy gunfire fire was exchanged and clashes broke out in the Libyan capital following the killing of a local militia leader. As per reports, the clashes resulted in at least six deaths so far. Watch this video to find out more.

Libya: Clash between rival armed groups kills 6 people

Libyans commemorate the 14th anniversary of the revolution that led to the fall of Gaddafi's regime. Fireworks lit up Tripoli as citizens reflected on years of change and continued challenges.

Libya marks 14 years since the uprising that toppled Gaddafi

A vessel carrying around 65 passengers capsized near Libya’s Marsa Dela port. Pakistan’s embassy in Tripoli is seeking details of possible Pakistani affectees and assisting local authorities. The Foreign Office has activated its Crisis Management Unit to monitor the situation.

Pakistan investigates Libya boat tragedy as embassy steps in

September 10th will mark the first anniversary of floods in Libya that killed thousands and displaced many more. According to a report issued in November by the UN, there were 4,352 confirmed deaths with 8,000 people still missing. Watch to know more.

Libya's deadly floods: Swathes of Derna was obliterated

A 22-year-old Sudanese woman, who fled to Libya as a refugee from the war in her country, has defied the pre-conceptions and customs of a conservative society, with the unfailing support and encouragement of her brother and the garage owner. She is a thriving mechanic who now narrates her story of perserverance.

Sudanese woman refugee works as a mechanic in Libya

Libya's central bank has suspended all operations after its head of information technology was kidnapped in Tripoli. Musab Msallem was abducted from his home by an unidentified group. The bank has linked the incident to a previous siege on its headquarters and threats made to other executives.

Libya’s central bank shuts down operations

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli,&nbsp;Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU)&nbsp;announced in a statement. The development marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The first Indian diplomat has reached the country after a gap of several years. Dr&nbsp;Mohd. Aleem has been appointed as the Charge d'Affaires (CdA) at the reopened Indian Embassy in Tripoli. Previously, Dr Aleem served as the Under Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) West Asia &amp; North Africa Division (WANA).

According to a statement from the GNU, the embassy's reopening is viewed as an "important step" for the ties between the two countries. The&nbsp;embassy was "reopened" following a&nbsp;ceremony on Monday (Jul 21), attended by the Libyan side as well.&nbsp;

The Indian embassy in Tripoli had&nbsp;been closed since April 2019 due to the deteriorating security situation in Libya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-floods-thousands-still-missing-after-catastrophic-tragedy-bodies-wash-up-on-far-away-beaches-636330">Libya floods: Thousands still missing after catastrophic tragedy, bodies wash up on far-away beaches</a>

The Indian embassy in Tunisia was accredited to Libya and dealt with the situation regarding the Indian community in the country. With its reopening, Libyan citizens will once again be able to obtain visas. The opening of the embassy also&nbsp;represents a positive development for the Indian community in the country.

Earlier this year, Libya's Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Mohamed Khalil Issa, visited India and met with key MEA officials, including Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan.

An Indian delegation also visited Libya in August 2023.

Due to now-receded civil unrest in Libya, the Indian government imposed a travel ban on Indian nationals travelling to Libya in April 2016. This ban remains in effect, especially given the reports of abductions of Indian workers in the country.

In September 2020, seven Indian workers were kidnapped while travelling from Benghazi to Tripoli, and in February 2022, 27 Indian workers were evacuated from Benghazi in Eastern Libya.

Born in the Indian city of&nbsp;Gorakhpur,&nbsp;Tabassum Mansoor, who runs the Indian International School in Benghazi, has played a crucial role in the evacuation and repatriation of Indian nationals from Libya.&nbsp;

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli, Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU) announced in a statement.

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli, Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU) announced in a statement. The development marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between the two nations. The first Indian diplomat has reached the country after a gap of several years. Dr Mohd. Aleem has been appointed as the Charge d'Affaires (CdA) at the reopened Indian Embassy in Tripoli. Previously, Dr Aleem served as the Under Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) West Asia & North Africa Division (WANA). According to a statement from the GNU, the embassy's reopening is viewed as an "important step" for the ties between the two countries. The embassy was "reopened" following a ceremony on Monday (Jul 21), attended by the Libyan side as well. The Indian embassy in Tripoli had been closed since April 2019 due to the deteriorating security situation in Libya. Also read | Libya floods: Thousands still missing after catastrophic tragedy, bodies wash up on far-away beaches The Indian embassy in Tunisia was accredited to Libya and dealt with the situation regarding the Indian community in the country. With its reopening, Libyan citizens will once again be able to obtain visas. The opening of the embassy also represents a positive development for the Indian community in the country. Earlier this year, Libya's Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Mohamed Khalil Issa, visited India and met with key MEA officials, including Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan. An Indian delegation also visited Libya in August 2023. Due to now-receded civil unrest in Libya, the Indian government imposed a travel ban on Indian nationals travelling to Libya in April 2016. This ban remains in effect, especially given the reports of abductions of Indian workers in the country. In September 2020, seven Indian workers were kidnapped while travelling from Benghazi to Tripoli, and in February 2022, 27 Indian workers were evacuated from Benghazi in Eastern Libya. Born in the Indian city of Gorakhpur, Tabassum Mansoor, who runs the Indian International School in Benghazi, has played a crucial role in the evacuation and repatriation of Indian nationals from Libya.

India 'reopens' embassy in Libya after five years

From sharing food and nap times to family gatherings, Libyan Abdel Fattah Al-Saadi has been raising predatory animals as his pets inside his home in Libya's Tripoli. Here's a report on why some North African and Arab nations allow people to breed or domesticate wild animals.

Libya: Man raises predatory animals at home as his pets

A powerful sandstorm is blowing across eastern Libya, disrupting air traffic and shutting down airports, public administration, and schools in the region...

Sandstorm hits East Libya

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. In a statement, the IOM said it was profoundly shocked and alarmed, adding that the circumstances of the deaths remained unknown.&nbsp;

"...but it is believed that they died in the process of being smuggled through the desert," the statement added. Libya has launched an investigation into the deaths, a report by the news agency AFP said.

In its statement, the IOM also called on Libyan authorities to ensure a dignified recovery, identification and transfer of the remains of the deceased migrants, and notify their families.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sixty-migrants-feared-drowned-crossing-mediterranean-from-libya-700420">Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya</a>

The UN agency further said that these deaths showed “the urgent need to address the challenges of irregular migration including through a coordinated response to the smuggling of migrants and trafficking in persons.”

“Without regular pathways that provide opportunities for legal migration, such tragedies will continue to be a feature along this route,” it added.&nbsp;

In an unverified message on Facebook, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the interior ministry in Tripoli said the bodies were discovered in al-Jahriya Valley in Al Shuwairf town. The CID said that after taking the DNA samples, all bodies were buried in a cemetery on instructions from the attorney general of the appeals chamber in Gharyan town.&nbsp;

Over a decade of violent instability since the 2011 overthrow and killing of the dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a Nato-backed uprising helped turn Libya into a fertile ground for people smugglers and traffickers, who have long been accused of abuses against migrants.

The IOM's Missing Migrants project has said that at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances were recorded last year along the Mediterranean route to Europe.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said.

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. In a statement, the IOM said it was profoundly shocked and alarmed, adding that the circumstances of the deaths remained unknown. "...but it is believed that they died in the process of being smuggled through the desert," the statement added. Libya has launched an investigation into the deaths, a report by the news agency AFP said. In its statement, the IOM also called on Libyan authorities to ensure a dignified recovery, identification and transfer of the remains of the deceased migrants, and notify their families. Also read | Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya The UN agency further said that these deaths showed “the urgent need to address the challenges of irregular migration including through a coordinated response to the smuggling of migrants and trafficking in persons.” “Without regular pathways that provide opportunities for legal migration, such tragedies will continue to be a feature along this route,” it added. In an unverified message on Facebook, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the interior ministry in Tripoli said the bodies were discovered in al-Jahriya Valley in Al Shuwairf town. The CID said that after taking the DNA samples, all bodies were buried in a cemetery on instructions from the attorney general of the appeals chamber in Gharyan town. Over a decade of violent instability since the 2011 overthrow and killing of the dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a Nato-backed uprising helped turn Libya into a fertile ground for people smugglers and traffickers, who have long been accused of abuses against migrants. The IOM's Missing Migrants project has said that at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances were recorded last year along the Mediterranean route to Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Mass grave of 65 people discovered in southwest Libya, says UN agency; probe launched

A German charity NGO has accused the Libyan Coast Guard of interfering during a Rescue Mission in the southern Mediterranean Sea. A video shot by the crew members shows the Coast Guard maneuvering very close to two rescue boats and a wooden boat of migrants. Watch to know more!

German NGO accuses Libyan coast guard of hampering migrant rescue operations

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter.

The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024.

"The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X.

"Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added.

There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard.

The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report.

"Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area.

The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday.

It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the&nbsp;migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks.

Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;and often temporarily impounding their ships.

Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores.

Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday. SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter. The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500 migrants died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024. "The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X. "Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added. There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard. The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report. "Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X. In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area. The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday. It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks. Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark migrants and often temporarily impounding their ships. Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea migrants making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores. Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968 migrants have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown.

The National Oil Corporation (NOC) announced the "lifting of force majeure" and the resumption of "full production" at Al-Sharara, which normally produces up to 315,000 barrels per day.

The NOC on January 7 declared "force majeure" at the southwestern oilfield "due to the closure of the site by protesters". 
 
It did not elaborate at the time on the protesters' demands.

Repeated interruptions in crude production in the war-torn North African country have been caused by social and political protests amid clashes between rival factions.

Watch | 2023: Rise of military rulers in Africa, military rulers fighting for control in Sudan

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A local group in Oubari region, "Fezzan Gathering", announced earlier on Sunday they had reached an agreement with the NOC to end their protest action at Al-Sharara.

"In an agreement with the president of the NOC, in which he vowed to concede to our demands... we announce the suspension of our sit-in at the Al-Sharara field," a representative of the group said in a Facebook video.

Both the NOC and "Fezzan Gathering" did not share the details of the accord.

According to the protest group, they have received "guarantees" from military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who backs one of Libya's two rival administrations.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ten-killed-in-sudan-landmine-explosion-medical-source-682170">Ten killed in Sudan landmine explosion: medical source</a>

Declaring "force majeure" allows parties to free themselves from contractual obligations when factors such as fighting or natural disasters make meeting them impossible.

Libya sits on Africa's largest oil reserves but production has been frequently disrupted during over a decade of chaos since a NATO-backed uprising led to the ouster and killing of former dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Libya remains split between a UN-recognised government in the west and an eastern-based administration backed by Haftar. 
Oil revenues are vital to the economy, and the NOC is one of the few institutions in the troubled country to have stayed in one piece.

The Al-Sharara field, in the desert 900 kilometres (560 miles) south of Tripoli, is operated by a joint venture between the NOC and four European companies.

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown.

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown. The National Oil Corporation (NOC) announced the "lifting of force majeure" and the resumption of "full production" at Al-Sharara, which normally produces up to 315,000 barrels per day. The NOC on January 7 declared "force majeure" at the southwestern oilfield "due to the closure of the site by protesters". It did not elaborate at the time on the protesters' demands. Repeated interruptions in crude production in the war-torn North African country have been caused by social and political protests amid clashes between rival factions. Watch | 2023: Rise of military rulers in Africa, military rulers fighting for control in Sudan × A local group in Oubari region, "Fezzan Gathering", announced earlier on Sunday they had reached an agreement with the NOC to end their protest action at Al-Sharara. "In an agreement with the president of the NOC, in which he vowed to concede to our demands... we announce the suspension of our sit-in at the Al-Sharara field," a representative of the group said in a Facebook video. Both the NOC and "Fezzan Gathering" did not share the details of the accord. According to the protest group, they have received "guarantees" from military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who backs one of Libya's two rival administrations. Also Read | Ten killed in Sudan landmine explosion: medical source Declaring "force majeure" allows parties to free themselves from contractual obligations when factors such as fighting or natural disasters make meeting them impossible. Libya sits on Africa's largest oil reserves but production has been frequently disrupted during over a decade of chaos since a NATO-backed uprising led to the ouster and killing of former dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. Libya remains split between a UN-recognised government in the west and an eastern-based administration backed by Haftar. Oil revenues are vital to the economy, and the NOC is one of the few institutions in the troubled country to have stayed in one piece. The Al-Sharara field, in the desert 900 kilometres (560 miles) south of Tripoli, is operated by a joint venture between the NOC and four European companies.

Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt

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