The French organization “SOS Méditerranée” has reported that unidentified armed men, later identified as Libyans, intercepted a rescue operation for irregular migrants at sea a few days ago.
The organization explained that the armed men, whose identities remain unknown, were aboard two speedboats when they obstructed the rescue operation. They attempted to force the migrants back to Libya, causing about 25 migrants to jump into the sea.
The organization added that the masked gunmen created a state of panic. However, SOS Méditerranée was eventually able to rescue the migrants and transfer them to the “Ocean Viking” ship. Meanwhile, the gunmen started the migrants’ boat engines and headed back to Libya, according to the organization.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
