Ten bodies were spotted near a capsized rubber &nbsp;boat&nbsp;off&nbsp;the coast of&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;on Thursday, which had around&nbsp;130&nbsp;people&nbsp;aboard, a rescue charity said.

European humanitarian group SOS Mediterranee said it was alerted on Tuesday, by the volunteer-run Mediterranean rescue hotline Alarm Phone, to the presence of three boats in distress in international waters&nbsp;off&nbsp;Libya.

The&nbsp;NGO's Ocean Viking ship, as well as merchant vessels, headed to the area in difficult conditions, with up to six-metre waves.

"Since we arrived on scene today, we have not found any survivors while we could see at least ten bodies in the vicinity of the wreck. We are heartbroken," said Luisa Albera, search and rescue coordinator&nbsp;aboard&nbsp;Ocean Viking.

On Wednesday, the Ocean Viking spent all day searching for a wooden&nbsp;boat&nbsp;in distress, with no success. The fate of the 40 people onboard remains unknown.

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"There is no hope of finding any survivors," French journalist Emmanuelle Chaze told AFP by phone from onboard the rescue ship, adding that "many bodies" had been spotted.

Last week the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that at least 41 people, including a child, died after a&nbsp;boat&nbsp;carrying African migrants to Europe sank&nbsp;off&nbsp;Tunisia.

Over 450 migrants have perished in the Mediterranean so far this year, according to the IOM, most attempting to reach Europe from Tunisia or&nbsp;Libya.

Ten bodies were spotted near a capsized rubber boat off the coast of Libya on Thursday, which had around 130 people aboard, a rescue charity said. European humanitarian group SOS Mediterranee said it was alerted on Tuesday, by the volunteer-run Mediterranean rescue hotline Alarm Phone, to the presence of three boats in distress in international waters off Libya.

Ten bodies were spotted near a capsized rubber boat off the coast of Libya on Thursday, which had around 130 people aboard, a rescue charity said. European humanitarian group SOS Mediterranee said it was alerted on Tuesday, by the volunteer-run Mediterranean rescue hotline Alarm Phone, to the presence of three boats in distress in international waters off Libya. The NGO's Ocean Viking ship, as well as merchant vessels, headed to the area in difficult conditions, with up to six-metre waves. "Since we arrived on scene today, we have not found any survivors while we could see at least ten bodies in the vicinity of the wreck. We are heartbroken," said Luisa Albera, search and rescue coordinator aboard Ocean Viking. On Wednesday, the Ocean Viking spent all day searching for a wooden boat in distress, with no success. The fate of the 40 people onboard remains unknown. Also read: Over 1,500 migrants ‘rescued’ off Libya coast in week "There is no hope of finding any survivors," French journalist Emmanuelle Chaze told AFP by phone from onboard the rescue ship, adding that "many bodies" had been spotted. Last week the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that at least 41 people, including a child, died after a boat carrying African migrants to Europe sank off Tunisia. Over 450 migrants have perished in the Mediterranean so far this year, according to the IOM, most attempting to reach Europe from Tunisia or Libya.

Migrant boat with 130 aboard capsizes off Libya: NGO

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval.&nbsp;

The council agreed unanimously to follow through on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent proposal for up to 60 monitors to join an existing political mission in Libya.&nbsp;

The monitors would arrive in an ‘incremental deployment ... Once conditions allow’, according to the council's British-drafted resolution. The measure also urges all foreign forces and mercenaries to get out of the country, as was supposed to happen months ago.&nbsp;

"We now expect all UN Members to act on that, helping Libya to regain its sovereignty and work towards lasting peace and stability," Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly, said in a statement from London.&nbsp;

He heralded the resolution as sending 'a clear signal of support' for Libya's transitional government, which took power last month and is expected to lead the country to the elections, planned for December 24.&nbsp;

Libya's UN Mission didn't immediately comment on the resolution. The country didn't get to vote on them, as it isn't a member of the 15-nation council. Voting was conducted by email, due to the coronavirus pandemic; the results were announced at a brief virtual meeting.&nbsp;

Libya has been wracked by chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and split the oil-rich North African country between a UN-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the country's east.&nbsp;

Each side was backed by armed groups and foreign governments. The UN Estimated in December there were at least 20,000 foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya, including Syrians, Russians, Sudanese and Chadians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval.

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval. The council agreed unanimously to follow through on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent proposal for up to 60 monitors to join an existing political mission in Libya. The monitors would arrive in an ‘incremental deployment ... Once conditions allow’, according to the council's British-drafted resolution. The measure also urges all foreign forces and mercenaries to get out of the country, as was supposed to happen months ago. "We now expect all UN Members to act on that, helping Libya to regain its sovereignty and work towards lasting peace and stability," Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly, said in a statement from London. He heralded the resolution as sending 'a clear signal of support' for Libya's transitional government, which took power last month and is expected to lead the country to the elections, planned for December 24. Libya's UN Mission didn't immediately comment on the resolution. The country didn't get to vote on them, as it isn't a member of the 15-nation council. Voting was conducted by email, due to the coronavirus pandemic; the results were announced at a brief virtual meeting. Libya has been wracked by chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and split the oil-rich North African country between a UN-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the country's east. Each side was backed by armed groups and foreign governments. The UN Estimated in December there were at least 20,000 foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya, including Syrians, Russians, Sudanese and Chadians. (With inputs from agencies)

UN agrees to deploy ceasefire monitors as Libya heads towards December polls 

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers.&nbsp;The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija. He was earlier&nbsp;sanctioned by the United Nations for sinking migrant boats.

Milad is part of a criminal network which operates from Zwiyah in northwest Libya, The Guardian reported. In October 2020, he was arrested by authorities&nbsp;but was freed on Sunday after charges against him were dropped by the military attorney general of Tripoli, citing&nbsp;lack of evidence.

The UNSC had imposed sanctions against Bija and five others in June 2018 for their connections with criminal networks that specialise in trafficking migrants from Libya.

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In 2019, an Italian newspaper called Avvenire had reported that Bija was present in Europe throughout the last few years at official meetings including Italy, Rome between 2017-2019.

Soon after the news of his release came in, criticism flowed in from many parts of the world, especially in Italy where two journalists were given police protection for reporting on the criminal’s activities.

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Many migrants hoping to flee wars and poverty cross through the country in hopes of reaching Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea.

The UN has referred to Bija as being directly involved in “sinking of migrant boats” was introduced at official meetings as a “Libyan coastguard”, the Italian newspaper reported.

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers. The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija.

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers. The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija. He was earlier sanctioned by the United Nations for sinking migrant boats. Milad is part of a criminal network which operates from Zwiyah in northwest Libya, The Guardian reported. In October 2020, he was arrested by authorities but was freed on Sunday after charges against him were dropped by the military attorney general of Tripoli, citing lack of evidence. The UNSC had imposed sanctions against Bija and five others in June 2018 for their connections with criminal networks that specialise in trafficking migrants from Libya. Also read: Libya's interior minister survives assassination attempt In 2019, an Italian newspaper called Avvenire had reported that Bija was present in Europe throughout the last few years at official meetings including Italy, Rome between 2017-2019. Soon after the news of his release came in, criticism flowed in from many parts of the world, especially in Italy where two journalists were given police protection for reporting on the criminal’s activities. Also read: Over 1,500 migrants ‘rescued’ off Libya coast in week Many migrants hoping to flee wars and poverty cross through the country in hopes of reaching Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The UN has referred to Bija as being directly involved in “sinking of migrant boats” was introduced at official meetings as a “Libyan coastguard”, the Italian newspaper reported.

One of the world's most wanted human traffickers released by Libya

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli.

Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli.

His convoy had returned the fire leading to the arrest of two of the assailants. A third assailant was identified as Radwan al-Hangari, who later died in the hospital, as per sources quoted by news agency AFP.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwishcWCwPzuAhUBg-YKHRf2C1cQFjACegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw32JafG13_Fn6igrgq25ET_" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989" target="_blank">Trump's ally, Erik Prince, violated&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;arms embargo: UN</a>

It is being assumed that the three assailants hailed from Zawiya, 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Tripoli.

The news agency AFP quoted one of their own reporters who heard an intense exchange of gunfire around 3 pm (1300 GMT) on the coastal road near Janzur on the eastern edges of Tripoli.

The road was later closed for investigation for nearly an hour by security forces.

After the incident, the interior ministry has assured everyone that the minister is safe and unharmed. In a statement, the ministry claimed that he was targeted in an "assassination attempt as he returned from his residence in Janzur".&nbsp;

The attackers used an armoured Toyota truck which was fitted with a machine gun.&nbsp;

As of now, only a security guard has been reported as injured. The militants have been arrested and are being questioned, as per sources.

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli. Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli.

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli. Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli. His convoy had returned the fire leading to the arrest of two of the assailants. A third assailant was identified as Radwan al-Hangari, who later died in the hospital, as per sources quoted by news agency AFP. Also read| Trump's ally, Erik Prince, violated Libya arms embargo: UN It is being assumed that the three assailants hailed from Zawiya, 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Tripoli. The news agency AFP quoted one of their own reporters who heard an intense exchange of gunfire around 3 pm (1300 GMT) on the coastal road near Janzur on the eastern edges of Tripoli. The road was later closed for investigation for nearly an hour by security forces. After the incident, the interior ministry has assured everyone that the minister is safe and unharmed. In a statement, the ministry claimed that he was targeted in an "assassination attempt as he returned from his residence in Janzur". The attackers used an armoured Toyota truck which was fitted with a machine gun. As of now, only a security guard has been reported as injured. The militants have been arrested and are being questioned, as per sources.

Libya's interior minister survives assassination attempt

Libya’s interior minister Fathi Bashagha survived an attack by gunmen on his motorcade which came under fire outside the capital. The gunmen fired on his convoy as he drove across countries capital Tripoli.

WION Dispatch: Libya's Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha survives assassination attempt

Libya’s Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha has survived an attack by gunmen on his motorcade. The gunmen fired on his convoy as he drove across Libya's capital Tripoli.

Libyan's Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha survives assassination

A major ally of the reality TV star and former US President, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, did violate a United Nations arms embargo on Libya, a United Nations' report has concluded.

Erik Prince is the former head of the security contractor Blackwater Worldwide and a prominent Trump supporter.

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The New York Times received a confidential UN report which, as per the media house, reveals that Prince deployed a force of foreign mercenaries to eastern Libya in 2019 along with attack aircraft, gunboats and cyberwarfare capabilities.

This supply took place at a time when eastern Libya was at the height of a major battle in 2019.

The UN report also revealed that the mercenaries had also planned to form a hit squad that would have been capable of and responsible for tracking down and assassinating selected Libyan commanders opposed to Hafter — including some who were also European Union citizens.

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This mission, as per the reports, had cost nearly $80 million.

It describes how a friend and former business partner of Prince travelled to Jordan to buy surplus, American-made Cobra helicopters from the Jordanian military. This would have normally required permission from the US government, according to military experts quoted by the Times. The friend, Christiaan Durrant, manipulated the system by assuring officials in Jordan that he had “clearances from everywhere” and that his team’s work had been approved “at the highest level”.

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The report also claims that Durrant had made several phone calls to the White House switchboard in late July 2019, after the mercenary operation ran into trouble. However, it is not clear if he got through and who was he aiming to contact.

If proven guilty, these charges can lead to Prince facing UN sanctions such as a travel ban and freezing of all of his assets. However, such punishments are seeming to be uncertain at this point.

As of now, Prince has not been cooperating with the investigators and his lawyer has, since last year, denied any involvement and responsibility of these allegations.

(With inputs from The New York Times)

A major ally of the reality TV star and former US President, Donald Trump, did violate a United Nations arms embargo on Libya, a United Nations' report has concluded.

A major ally of the reality TV star and former US President, Donald Trump, did violate a United Nations arms embargo on Libya, a United Nations' report has concluded. Erik Prince is the former head of the security contractor Blackwater Worldwide and a prominent Trump supporter. Also read| Casino formerly owned by Donald Trump demolished The New York Times received a confidential UN report which, as per the media house, reveals that Prince deployed a force of foreign mercenaries to eastern Libya in 2019 along with attack aircraft, gunboats and cyberwarfare capabilities. This supply took place at a time when eastern Libya was at the height of a major battle in 2019. The UN report also revealed that the mercenaries had also planned to form a hit squad that would have been capable of and responsible for tracking down and assassinating selected Libyan commanders opposed to Hafter — including some who were also European Union citizens. Also read| Donald Trump preferred candidate for 2024 presidential election: Poll This mission, as per the reports, had cost nearly $80 million. It describes how a friend and former business partner of Prince travelled to Jordan to buy surplus, American-made Cobra helicopters from the Jordanian military. This would have normally required permission from the US government, according to military experts quoted by the Times. The friend, Christiaan Durrant, manipulated the system by assuring officials in Jordan that he had “clearances from everywhere” and that his team’s work had been approved “at the highest level”. Also read| 'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell after impeachment trial The report also claims that Durrant had made several phone calls to the White House switchboard in late July 2019, after the mercenary operation ran into trouble. However, it is not clear if he got through and who was he aiming to contact. If proven guilty, these charges can lead to Prince facing UN sanctions such as a travel ban and freezing of all of his assets. However, such punishments are seeming to be uncertain at this point. As of now, Prince has not been cooperating with the investigators and his lawyer has, since last year, denied any involvement and responsibility of these allegations. (With inputs from The New York Times)

Trump's ally, Erik Prince, violated Libya arms embargo: UN

West Asia has been blanketed by snow. Libya, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Palestine & Saudi Arabia are all reporting snowfall. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why this is proof of climate change.

Gravitas: Why its snowing in West Asia

In a week, Libya has rescued more than 1,500 would-be migrants off its west coast, a non-governmental organisation said.&nbsp;

"The Libyan coastguard has conducted several rescue operations from a week ago until (Wednesday) and rescued about 1,500 people," Adel al-Idrissi from the International Rescue Committee said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday alone, 240 African migrants were rescued from two boats off the port city of Al-Khums, said Lieutenant-Colonel Mohammed Abdel Aali of the coastguard.&nbsp;

"We encountered difficulties in getting the (migrants from the first boat) on board, but the second group showed less opposition," he said.&nbsp;

Migrants intercepted off the Libyan coast object to being returned to the country, preferring to wait for humanitarian rescue ships.&nbsp;

Despite unabated violence in Libya since the fall of Moamer Kadhafi's regime in 2011, the country remains an important transit point for migrants fleeing instability in other parts of Africa and the Middle East and seeking to reach Europe.&nbsp;

International agencies frequently denounce the return to Libya of migrants intercepted at sea due to the chaotic situation in the country and poor conditions in detention centres.&nbsp;

Veronica Alfonsi, a spokeswoman for the Spanish aid ship Open Arms, confirmed on Wednesday that around 200 people had been returned to Libya.&nbsp;

"Men, women and children taken back to Libya against their will," the charity's founder Oscar Camps said on Twitter.&nbsp;

More than 1,200 migrants and asylum-seekers died while crossing the Mediterranean in 2020, according to the International Organization for Migration.

In a week, Libya has rescued more than 1,500 would-be migrants off its west coast, a non-governmental organisation said. "The Libyan coastguard has conducted several rescue operations from a week ago until (Wednesday) and rescued about 1,500 people," Adel al-Idrissi from the International Rescue Committee said.

In a week, Libya has rescued more than 1,500 would-be migrants off its west coast, a non-governmental organisation said. "The Libyan coastguard has conducted several rescue operations from a week ago until (Wednesday) and rescued about 1,500 people," Adel al-Idrissi from the International Rescue Committee said. On Wednesday alone, 240 African migrants were rescued from two boats off the port city of Al-Khums, said Lieutenant-Colonel Mohammed Abdel Aali of the coastguard. "We encountered difficulties in getting the (migrants from the first boat) on board, but the second group showed less opposition," he said. Migrants intercepted off the Libyan coast object to being returned to the country, preferring to wait for humanitarian rescue ships. Despite unabated violence in Libya since the fall of Moamer Kadhafi's regime in 2011, the country remains an important transit point for migrants fleeing instability in other parts of Africa and the Middle East and seeking to reach Europe. International agencies frequently denounce the return to Libya of migrants intercepted at sea due to the chaotic situation in the country and poor conditions in detention centres. Veronica Alfonsi, a spokeswoman for the Spanish aid ship Open Arms, confirmed on Wednesday that around 200 people had been returned to Libya. "Men, women and children taken back to Libya against their will," the charity's founder Oscar Camps said on Twitter. More than 1,200 migrants and asylum-seekers died while crossing the Mediterranean in 2020, according to the International Organization for Migration.

Over 1,500 migrants ‘rescued’ off Libya coast in week

The aim has been to ensure the three regions of Libya are represented in the government in the run-up to the elections.

UN sponsored talks produce interim government for Libya

Libya`s parallel eastern administration welcomed Friday`s announcement of a new interim government to unite the country, but added it would only cede power if the eastern-based parliament approved.

Saturday`s qualified statement of support - leaving scope to oppose the move later - illustrates the challenges that may face U.N.-led efforts to find a political solution to a decade of chaos, division and violence.

Libya has been split between east and west since 2014, with the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli, and a rival administration in Benghazi backed by Khalifa Haftar`s eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA).

On Friday, participants in U.N. talks in Switzerland voted on a new presidency council and government head to oversee the run-up to national parliamentary and presidential elections planned for December.

Losing candidates in the vote - including the eastern-based parliament head Aguila Saleh and western-based interior minister Fathi Bashagha and defence minister Saleh Namroush - have made public statements of support for the new government.

Under rules agreed by the Libyan talks participants picked by the United Nations to represent the country`s rival political currents, the new prime minister, Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, has three weeks to form a new government and present it to parliament.

Parliament split in 2019 as a group of lawmakers broke off, making any agreement by a full quorum difficult. If it does not ratify the new government, however, the U.N. talks participants have agreed that they have the power to do so themselves.

The parliament had opposed the formation of the GNA, appointing its own parallel eastern-based administration under Abdullah Thinni. He said on Saturday his administration would not stand down until a full parliamentary assembly approved the new government.

Haftar, who was appointed army chief by the eastern-based parliament, did not issue an immediate statement. However, his general command headquarters said it welcomed the agreement and called for all to help reaching the December elections.

The United Arab Emirates and Egypt, which both backed Haftar during the war, have publicly voiced support.

Tayyip Erdogan the president of Turkey, which supports the GNA, spoke by phone with Dbeibeh and the new presidency council head Abdulmajid al-Menfi to congratulate them, his office said on Saturday.

Erdogan told them that Turkey, whose forces helped repel an attack on Tripoli by Haftar last year, would "continue to contribute to the peace, security and welfare" of Libyans, it added.

The United Nations has previously said the UAE, Egypt, Turkey and Russia broke an arms embargo on Libya that they had publicly endorsed.

Libya`s parallel eastern administration welcomed Friday`s announcement of a new interim government to unite the country, but added it would only cede power if the eastern-based parliament approved.

Libya`s parallel eastern administration welcomed Friday`s announcement of a new interim government to unite the country, but added it would only cede power if the eastern-based parliament approved. Saturday`s qualified statement of support - leaving scope to oppose the move later - illustrates the challenges that may face U.N.-led efforts to find a political solution to a decade of chaos, division and violence. Libya has been split between east and west since 2014, with the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli, and a rival administration in Benghazi backed by Khalifa Haftar`s eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA). On Friday, participants in U.N. talks in Switzerland voted on a new presidency council and government head to oversee the run-up to national parliamentary and presidential elections planned for December. Losing candidates in the vote - including the eastern-based parliament head Aguila Saleh and western-based interior minister Fathi Bashagha and defence minister Saleh Namroush - have made public statements of support for the new government. Under rules agreed by the Libyan talks participants picked by the United Nations to represent the country`s rival political currents, the new prime minister, Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, has three weeks to form a new government and present it to parliament. Parliament split in 2019 as a group of lawmakers broke off, making any agreement by a full quorum difficult. If it does not ratify the new government, however, the U.N. talks participants have agreed that they have the power to do so themselves. The parliament had opposed the formation of the GNA, appointing its own parallel eastern-based administration under Abdullah Thinni. He said on Saturday his administration would not stand down until a full parliamentary assembly approved the new government. Haftar, who was appointed army chief by the eastern-based parliament, did not issue an immediate statement. However, his general command headquarters said it welcomed the agreement and called for all to help reaching the December elections. The United Arab Emirates and Egypt, which both backed Haftar during the war, have publicly voiced support. Tayyip Erdogan the president of Turkey, which supports the GNA, spoke by phone with Dbeibeh and the new presidency council head Abdulmajid al-Menfi to congratulate them, his office said on Saturday. Erdogan told them that Turkey, whose forces helped repel an attack on Tripoli by Haftar last year, would "continue to contribute to the peace, security and welfare" of Libyans, it added. The United Nations has previously said the UAE, Egypt, Turkey and Russia broke an arms embargo on Libya that they had publicly endorsed.

Libya power brokers welcome accord but challenges lie ahead

Foreign forces in Libya ignored a pull out deadline set by a UN-backed ceasefire deal on Saturday. An unidentified US intelligence officer was quoted in news reports as saying that there was 'no intent' by Turkish or Russian forces to leave Libya and abide by the UN deal. The developments signify the fragility of peace efforts in Libya, which has seen a decade of conflict.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged all "regional and international actors to respect the provisions" of the October 23 ceasefire accord that set out a withdrawal within three months of all foreign troops and mercenaries.

That deadline passed on Saturday, with no movement announced or observed on the ground.

The UN estimates there are still some 20,000 foreign troops and mercenaries in Libya helping the warring factions, the UN-recognised Government of National Accord in Tripoli and military strongman Khalifa Haftar in the east.

The GNA has received military support from Turkey. Haftar has the backing of the United Arab Emirates and Egypt as well as Russia.

On Friday, CNN broadcast satellite images showed that Russian proxies were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-huge-trench-by-russian-proxies-may-derail-peace-process-says-report-358600">digging a kilometres-long trench</a> from coastal areas near Site to their stronghold in al-Jufra. The objective appeared to be to fortify their positions against attacks from western parts of Libya held by internationally recognised Libyan government.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-huge-trench-by-russian-proxies-may-derail-peace-process-says-report-358600">Libya: Huge trench by Russian proxies may derail peace process, says report</a>

UN Secretary-General Guterres called on all parties to implement the terms of the ceasefire "without delay," something he noted "includes ensuring the departure of all foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya, and the full and unconditional respect of the Security Council arms embargo," which has been in place since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted and killed longtime ruler Moamer Kadhafi.

(With AFP inputs)

Foreign forces in Libya ignored a pull out deadline set by a UN-backed ceasefire deal on Saturday. An unidentified US intelligence officer was quoted in news reports as saying that there was 'no intent' by Turkish or Russian forces to leave Libya and abide by the UN deal.

Foreign forces in Libya ignored a pull out deadline set by a UN-backed ceasefire deal on Saturday. An unidentified US intelligence officer was quoted in news reports as saying that there was 'no intent' by Turkish or Russian forces to leave Libya and abide by the UN deal. The developments signify the fragility of peace efforts in Libya, which has seen a decade of conflict. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged all "regional and international actors to respect the provisions" of the October 23 ceasefire accord that set out a withdrawal within three months of all foreign troops and mercenaries. That deadline passed on Saturday, with no movement announced or observed on the ground. The UN estimates there are still some 20,000 foreign troops and mercenaries in Libya helping the warring factions, the UN-recognised Government of National Accord in Tripoli and military strongman Khalifa Haftar in the east. The GNA has received military support from Turkey. Haftar has the backing of the United Arab Emirates and Egypt as well as Russia. On Friday, CNN broadcast satellite images showed that Russian proxies were digging a kilometres-long trench from coastal areas near Site to their stronghold in al-Jufra. The objective appeared to be to fortify their positions against attacks from western parts of Libya held by internationally recognised Libyan government. Also Read | Libya: Huge trench by Russian proxies may derail peace process, says report UN Secretary-General Guterres called on all parties to implement the terms of the ceasefire "without delay," something he noted "includes ensuring the departure of all foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya, and the full and unconditional respect of the Security Council arms embargo," which has been in place since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted and killed longtime ruler Moamer Kadhafi. (With AFP inputs)

Libya: Foreign forces ignore UN peace deal deadline

An enormous trench being dug by Wagner, the Russian-backed mercenaries in war-torn Libya is threatening to derail UN-brokered peace deal, said CNN. The peace deal insists that all foreign fighters should leave Libya by this Saturday. However, the kilometres-long trench by Russian proxies suggests that they intend to further fortify their position.

Libya has seen conflict between internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) and Libyan National Army (LNA). The LNA has dominant presence in eastern Libya and enjoys support from Russia and UAE.

On Friday, CNN published satellite images that showed construction of 'dozens of kilometers' long trench being dug from coastal region around Sirte. The trench extends to al-Jufra, a stronghold of Wagner mercenaries in the south. The trench is apparently being dug to repel attack against LNA defensive lines.

As per UN data, the conflict between GNA and LNA has caused 2000 deaths and has further shattered oil-rich, strategically important middle eastern nation.

"I don't think anyone digging a trench today and making these reinforcements is leaving anytime soon," GNA Defense Minister Salaheddin Al-Namroush told CNN.&nbsp;

An enormous trench being dug by Wagner, the Russian-backed mercenaries in war-torn Libya is threatening to derail UN-brokered peace deal, said CNN. The peace deal insists that all foreign fighters should leave Libya by this Saturday.

An enormous trench being dug by Wagner, the Russian-backed mercenaries in war-torn Libya is threatening to derail UN-brokered peace deal, said CNN. The peace deal insists that all foreign fighters should leave Libya by this Saturday. However, the kilometres-long trench by Russian proxies suggests that they intend to further fortify their position. Libya has seen conflict between internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) and Libyan National Army (LNA). The LNA has dominant presence in eastern Libya and enjoys support from Russia and UAE. On Friday, CNN published satellite images that showed construction of 'dozens of kilometers' long trench being dug from coastal region around Sirte. The trench extends to al-Jufra, a stronghold of Wagner mercenaries in the south. The trench is apparently being dug to repel attack against LNA defensive lines. As per UN data, the conflict between GNA and LNA has caused 2000 deaths and has further shattered oil-rich, strategically important middle eastern nation. "I don't think anyone digging a trench today and making these reinforcements is leaving anytime soon," GNA Defense Minister Salaheddin Al-Namroush told CNN.

Libya: Huge trench by Russian proxies may derail peace process, says report

The UN mission in Libya has welcomed a second exchange of prisoners between the country's rival administrations and called for faster progress on other parts of an October truce.

The formerly warring sides exchanged a total of 35 prisoners in the small southwestern town of Shwairif under the auspices of a Joint Military Commission (JMC) set up under the hard-won ceasefire, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said late Tuesday.

The two sides completed a first prisoner swap in the same town late last month.

"This second official exchange of detainees is the result of the steadfast commitment by the JMC to move forward with the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement," the UN mission said.

"In this spirit, UNSMIL calls on both parties to swiftly finalise ongoing negotiations to reopen the coastal road."

The main highway along Libya's Mediterranean coast linking the capital Tripoli in the west with second city Benghazi in the east has long been severed by the front line between the opposing administrations.

The UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) controls Tripoli and most of the west while a rival administration dominated by military strongman Khalifa Haftar controls Benghazi and the east.

The fragile ceasefire between the two sides has largely held despite a threat by Haftar last month to resume fighting.

The next major test of the truce is a January 23 deadline for all foreign troops and mercenaries to leave Libya.

Turkey has deployed troops and Syrian militia allies in support of the GNA.

Russia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates have dispatched military advisers and private contractors in support of Haftar.

UN chief Antonio Guterres proposed last month that international monitors be deployed to support the ceasefire amid hopes Libya can finally turn the page on a decade of war since a NATO-backed uprising ousted and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

The UN mission in Libya has welcomed a second exchange of prisoners between the country's rival administrations and called for faster progress on other parts of an October truce.

The UN mission in Libya has welcomed a second exchange of prisoners between the country's rival administrations and called for faster progress on other parts of an October truce. The formerly warring sides exchanged a total of 35 prisoners in the small southwestern town of Shwairif under the auspices of a Joint Military Commission (JMC) set up under the hard-won ceasefire, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said late Tuesday. The two sides completed a first prisoner swap in the same town late last month. "This second official exchange of detainees is the result of the steadfast commitment by the JMC to move forward with the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement," the UN mission said. "In this spirit, UNSMIL calls on both parties to swiftly finalise ongoing negotiations to reopen the coastal road." The main highway along Libya's Mediterranean coast linking the capital Tripoli in the west with second city Benghazi in the east has long been severed by the front line between the opposing administrations. The UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) controls Tripoli and most of the west while a rival administration dominated by military strongman Khalifa Haftar controls Benghazi and the east. The fragile ceasefire between the two sides has largely held despite a threat by Haftar last month to resume fighting. The next major test of the truce is a January 23 deadline for all foreign troops and mercenaries to leave Libya. Turkey has deployed troops and Syrian militia allies in support of the GNA. Russia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates have dispatched military advisers and private contractors in support of Haftar. UN chief Antonio Guterres proposed last month that international monitors be deployed to support the ceasefire amid hopes Libya can finally turn the page on a decade of war since a NATO-backed uprising ousted and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

UN hails new Libya prisoner swap under October truce

Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar has threaten to drive out Turkish troops from Libya by force if they do not leave by peaceful means.

Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar vows to drive out Turkish troops

Putting their foot down, Turkey's defence minister has said any attack by the eastern Libyan strongman will be met with force now.

Targeting the strongman&nbsp;Khalifa Haftar directly in an address to the Turkish troops,&nbsp;Hulusi Akar labelled Haftar as a murderer and issued a warning to him and his supporters. "A war criminal, murderer Haftar and his supporters must know that they will be seen as a legitimate target in case of any attack on Turkish forces," he said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-wants-to-establish-better-ties-with-israel-but-palestine-policy-is-unacceptable-erdogan-352378">Turkey wants to establish better ties with Israel, but Palestine policy is 'unacceptable': Erdogan</a>

His statement has come a few days after Haftar boasted about his plans and said his forces will "prepare to drive out the occupier by faith, will and weapons". His comments were directed towards the Turkish forces that are supporting the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA).&nbsp;

Haftar's statement was not appreciated by the Turkish government who have now warned him against his violent plans. "If they take such a step, they will be unable to find any place to flee to," Akar warned. "Everyone should come to their senses."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-hit-by-55-magnitude-earthquake-352723">Turkey hit by 5.5 magnitude earthquake</a>

The exchange of statements has come as Turkey has been working with the GNA to stop the violent attacks by Haftar, the recent being a 14-month offensive against the capital by Haftar, who is backed by Russia, Egypt and United Arab Emirates.

This has also come a day after the local media reported that Akar made an unscheduled visit to Tripoli to discuss military cooperation between Ankara and the GNA. "What matters here is that everyone should contribute to a political solution. Any action other than that would be wrong," he said, adding there will be "no peace in the presence of a coloniser on our land."

Putting their foot down, Turkey's defence minister has said any attack by the eastern Libyan strongman will be met with force now. Targeting the strongman Khalifa Haftar directly in an address to the Turkish troops, Hulusi Akar labelled Haftar as a murderer and issued a warning to him and his supporters.

Putting their foot down, Turkey's defence minister has said any attack by the eastern Libyan strongman will be met with force now. Targeting the strongman Khalifa Haftar directly in an address to the Turkish troops, Hulusi Akar labelled Haftar as a murderer and issued a warning to him and his supporters. "A war criminal, murderer Haftar and his supporters must know that they will be seen as a legitimate target in case of any attack on Turkish forces," he said. Also read| Turkey wants to establish better ties with Israel, but Palestine policy is 'unacceptable': Erdogan His statement has come a few days after Haftar boasted about his plans and said his forces will "prepare to drive out the occupier by faith, will and weapons". His comments were directed towards the Turkish forces that are supporting the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA). Haftar's statement was not appreciated by the Turkish government who have now warned him against his violent plans. "If they take such a step, they will be unable to find any place to flee to," Akar warned. "Everyone should come to their senses." Also read| Turkey hit by 5.5 magnitude earthquake The exchange of statements has come as Turkey has been working with the GNA to stop the violent attacks by Haftar, the recent being a 14-month offensive against the capital by Haftar, who is backed by Russia, Egypt and United Arab Emirates. This has also come a day after the local media reported that Akar made an unscheduled visit to Tripoli to discuss military cooperation between Ankara and the GNA. "What matters here is that everyone should contribute to a political solution. Any action other than that would be wrong," he said, adding there will be "no peace in the presence of a coloniser on our land."

Turkey will retaliate against any attack by 'murderer' Libya strongman: Defence Minister

Arab Spring's 10th anniversary: What was 21st century's biggest movement all about?

"I lost my baby, where's my baby?" were the words of a migrant mother as she desperately searched while crying for her six-month child as their boat began to sink in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Libya on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The dramatic video was recorded by the people of an NGO Open Arms rescue ship as the operation to save migrants was ongoing.&nbsp;

Later, Joseph, the six-month-old child, was found dead along with five other migrants who also lost their lives.&nbsp;

The NGO decided to share the video in order to draw attention to the dangers migrants faced as they cross the Mediterranean, especially since the European nations have clamped down on deploying the rescue ships to operate in the region.&nbsp;

The rescue operation lasted the entire night and the Italian Coast Guard sent a helicopter to carry six migrants (including the dead child) to a hospital in Malta for urgent medical treatment.&nbsp;

Earlier, 20 African migrants are believed to have died off the coast of Libya when their boat sank as they tried to cross the Mediterranean Sea to enter Europe on Friday, which was fourth such accident in the region in one week.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

"I lost my baby, where's my baby?" were the words of a migrant mother as she desperately searched while crying for her six-month child as their boat began to sink in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Libya on Wednesday.

"I lost my baby, where's my baby?" were the words of a migrant mother as she desperately searched while crying for her six-month child as their boat began to sink in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Libya on Wednesday. The dramatic video was recorded by the people of an NGO Open Arms rescue ship as the operation to save migrants was ongoing. Later, Joseph, the six-month-old child, was found dead along with five other migrants who also lost their lives. The NGO decided to share the video in order to draw attention to the dangers migrants faced as they cross the Mediterranean, especially since the European nations have clamped down on deploying the rescue ships to operate in the region. The rescue operation lasted the entire night and the Italian Coast Guard sent a helicopter to carry six migrants (including the dead child) to a hospital in Malta for urgent medical treatment. Earlier, 20 African migrants are believed to have died off the coast of Libya when their boat sank as they tried to cross the Mediterranean Sea to enter Europe on Friday, which was fourth such accident in the region in one week.

Watch: Migrant mother cries for help as she searches six-month-old in sinking boat

The United Nations said the two sides reached the “historic achievement” with an immediate permanent ceasefire deal across the oil-rich North African country.

UN says Libya sides reach permanent ceasefire deal

Libya’s two main warring factions agreed to a cease-fire Friday, raising hopes for an end to years of bloody turmoil that have drawn in military forces from Russia, Turkey, and other regional powers.

The two sides signed the agreement at the United Nations in Geneva at the end of a weeklong meeting of delegates from the internationally recognised Government of National Accord, which is based in the capital, Tripoli, and the self-styled Libyan National Army led by Khalifa Hifter and based in the country’s east.

The two sides agreed on a complete, countrywide and permanent agreement with immediate effect, said Stephanie Williams, the U.N. acting special envoy who chaired the most recent talks. She said it called for front-line forces to return to their bases and for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries within three months, a process that would be monitored by the U.N.

“God willing, it will be the key to peace and security in all Libya,” Col. Ali Abushama, the head of the government delegation, said at the signing ceremony. “We have had enough suffering, enough division, enough bloodshed.”

Williams said the agreement will be sent immediately to the U.N. Security Council, stressing the critical importance of international backing.

The former U.N. envoy, Ghassan Salame, quit his job earlier this year, partly in exasperation at the failure of the international community to provide meaningful support for peace efforts in Libya.

Salame has been vocal about his disillusionment with the open meddling by some foreign countries in Libya, such as Russia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, combined with the failures of Western countries like the United States, France, and Britain to meaningfully counter that meddling.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the truce agreement as a “fundamental step” toward ending the conflict.

Williams said the accord set an exceptional example for Libyan politicians who now face the challenge of converting the cease-fire into a broader political settlement in talks due to open in Tunis in early November.

Friday’s agreement is intended to set in motion steps to unify security forces and disarm, demobilize and reintegrate the numerous armed factions that have operated unchecked by any central authority for years.

The two sides also agreed to measures that will reestablish national control over oil facilities and key institutions such as the central bank, Williams said.

Libya’s two main warring factions agreed to a cease-fire Friday, raising hopes for an end to years of bloody turmoil that have drawn in military forces from Russia, Turkey, and other regional powers.

Libya’s two main warring factions agreed to a cease-fire Friday, raising hopes for an end to years of bloody turmoil that have drawn in military forces from Russia, Turkey, and other regional powers. The two sides signed the agreement at the United Nations in Geneva at the end of a weeklong meeting of delegates from the internationally recognised Government of National Accord, which is based in the capital, Tripoli, and the self-styled Libyan National Army led by Khalifa Hifter and based in the country’s east. The two sides agreed on a complete, countrywide and permanent agreement with immediate effect, said Stephanie Williams, the U.N. acting special envoy who chaired the most recent talks. She said it called for front-line forces to return to their bases and for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries within three months, a process that would be monitored by the U.N. “God willing, it will be the key to peace and security in all Libya,” Col. Ali Abushama, the head of the government delegation, said at the signing ceremony. “We have had enough suffering, enough division, enough bloodshed.” Williams said the agreement will be sent immediately to the U.N. Security Council, stressing the critical importance of international backing. The former U.N. envoy, Ghassan Salame, quit his job earlier this year, partly in exasperation at the failure of the international community to provide meaningful support for peace efforts in Libya. Salame has been vocal about his disillusionment with the open meddling by some foreign countries in Libya, such as Russia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, combined with the failures of Western countries like the United States, France, and Britain to meaningfully counter that meddling. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the truce agreement as a “fundamental step” toward ending the conflict. Williams said the accord set an exceptional example for Libyan politicians who now face the challenge of converting the cease-fire into a broader political settlement in talks due to open in Tunis in early November. Friday’s agreement is intended to set in motion steps to unify security forces and disarm, demobilize and reintegrate the numerous armed factions that have operated unchecked by any central authority for years. The two sides also agreed to measures that will reestablish national control over oil facilities and key institutions such as the central bank, Williams said.

Libya cease-fire raises hopes for full peace deal

Pope Francis expressed support on Sunday for 18 fishermen held in Libya, weighing in on a standoff between Italy and the administration of Khalifa Haftar, one of the North African country`s two rival leaders.

"I want to say a word of encouragement and support for the fishermen who have been held in Libya for more than a month, and for their families (who) are hoping to be able to embrace their dear ones soon," Francis said at his weekly blessing in St. Peter`s Square.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-resident-tests-positive-for-covid-19-pope-tested-negative-336032">Also read|&nbsp;Vatican resident tests positive for COVID-19; Pope tested negative</a>

Libyan patrol boats detained two Sicilian fishing boats on September 1 and brought the crews to Benghazi, where the military commander Haftar holds sway. The crews, made up of Italians and Tunisians, were accused of operating in Libya`s territorial waters.

The fishing grounds have been disputed since 2005, when Libya`s then ruler, Muammar Gaddafi, unilaterally extended Libyan territorial waters to 74 nautical miles offshore from 12. Haftar, who controls eastern Libya, is trying to enforce this.

Italian newspapers have reported that Haftar wants Italy to hand over four Libyan nationals convicted of human trafficking in return for freeing the fishermen. Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament on Thursday that such an exchange would be "unacceptable".

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Francis also called for talks to bring peace to Libya, which is divided between Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) and the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA). The GNA is internationally recognised.

"Brothers and sisters, the time has come to stop every form of hostility and favour dialogue that brings peace, stability and unity to the country," he said.

Pope Francis expressed support on Sunday for 18 fishermen held in Libya, weighing in on a standoff between Italy and the administration of Khalifa Haftar, one of the North African country`s two rival leaders.

Pope Francis expressed support on Sunday for 18 fishermen held in Libya, weighing in on a standoff between Italy and the administration of Khalifa Haftar, one of the North African country`s two rival leaders. "I want to say a word of encouragement and support for the fishermen who have been held in Libya for more than a month, and for their families (who) are hoping to be able to embrace their dear ones soon," Francis said at his weekly blessing in St. Peter`s Square. Also read| Vatican resident tests positive for COVID-19; Pope tested negative Libyan patrol boats detained two Sicilian fishing boats on September 1 and brought the crews to Benghazi, where the military commander Haftar holds sway. The crews, made up of Italians and Tunisians, were accused of operating in Libya`s territorial waters. The fishing grounds have been disputed since 2005, when Libya`s then ruler, Muammar Gaddafi, unilaterally extended Libyan territorial waters to 74 nautical miles offshore from 12. Haftar, who controls eastern Libya, is trying to enforce this. Italian newspapers have reported that Haftar wants Italy to hand over four Libyan nationals convicted of human trafficking in return for freeing the fishermen. Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament on Thursday that such an exchange would be "unacceptable". × Francis also called for talks to bring peace to Libya, which is divided between Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) and the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA). The GNA is internationally recognised. "Brothers and sisters, the time has come to stop every form of hostility and favour dialogue that brings peace, stability and unity to the country," he said.

Pope expresses support for detained fishermen in Libya

Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet played a key role in negotiations.

Libya: 7 Indian hostages freed, workers were kidnapped in September

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals. The negotiations were complex given the fact 2 parallel governments were involved.&nbsp;

India does not have a working mission in Libya and to tackle the current situation, an Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-set-government-building-on-fire-in-eastern-libya-327232">Protesters set government building on fire in eastern Libya</a>

The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex. They hail from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh and were kidnapped at a place called Asshwerif in Libya on September 14. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India.

For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis.&nbsp;

India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

 
&nbsp;

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals.

New Delhi: Almost around a month after 7 Indians were kidnapped in Libya, they were freed on Sunday. Indian envoy to Tunisia Puneet Roy Kundal played a key role in negotiations, leading to the release of the Indian nationals. The negotiations were complex given the fact 2 parallel governments were involved. India does not have a working mission in Libya and to tackle the current situation, an Indian mission in neighbouring Tunisia is dealing with the affairs. Also read | Protesters set government building on fire in eastern Libya The Indians are currently in Brega town, which is the centre of the country's second-largest hydrocarbon complex. They hail from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh and were kidnapped at a place called Asshwerif in Libya on September 14. They were working at a construction and oil field supplies company and were kidnapped on their way to the Tripoli airport to catch a flight to India. For local coordination, Tabassum Mansoor, Principal of Indian International School, Benghazi was appointed by the Indian Embassy in Tunisia. Mansoor who has been living in Libya for last 40 years, on the instructions of the Indian Envoy Kundal was in constant touch with all the Libyan authorities especially the company manager and other key players almost on a daily basis. India in September 2015 issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Libya in view of the security situation there. Later, in May 2016, the government imposed a complete travel ban irrespective of the purpose in view of the deteriorating security situation. The travel ban remains in force.

Kidnapped in September, 7 Indian hostages in Libya freed

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