The acting Chargé d’Affaires of Iraq’s embassy in Tripoli, Ahmed Al-Sahhaf, announced on Wednesday the release of two Iraqi nationals who had been detained in Libya for illegal immigration. The two men were freed after 40 days of intensive diplomatic efforts coordinated between the Iraqi embassy and Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU).
In an official statement, Al-Sahhaf explained that the individuals had entered Libya unlawfully in an attempt to migrate to Europe through Libyan territory. He highlighted the dangers they faced after falling into the hands of human trafficking and smuggling networks operating within the region.
“The embassy succeeded, despite significant complications, in securing their release and safeguarding their lives,” said Al-Sahhaf. He confirmed that the two Iraqis had received medical treatment following their ordeal and were issued temporary travel documents to facilitate their voluntary return to Iraq.
This recent success adds to the Iraqi embassy’s wider efforts in Libya. Al-Sahhaf noted that dozens of Iraqi migrants have been released and repatriated by the embassy throughout 2024 and early 2025. Many had been detained after entering Libya illegally in hopes of crossing the Mediterranean to reach Europe.
Al-Sahhaf urged young Iraqis to avoid falling prey to human smuggling networks that endanger their lives and exploit their vulnerabilities. He stressed the embassy’s commitment to prioritising voluntary repatriation and continuing negotiations for the release of other detained Iraqi nationals.
The embassy has issued warnings on its official website and social media platforms, including Facebook and X, advising potential migrants of the severe risks involved in illegal migration through Libya. Al-Sahhaf reaffirmed the embassy’s dedication to protecting Iraqi citizens abroad and ensuring their safe return.
