A Maltese Civil Protection Department team has concluded a five-day humanitarian mission in Al-Asbi’ah, Libya, where a wave of mysterious fires recently destroyed dozens of homes. The operation was conducted under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and aimed to support Libyan authorities in managing the aftermath.
The Maltese delegation, consisting of five officials, worked alongside international experts from Estonia and Finland to assess the damage caused by the fires. Their preliminary findings were handed over to Libyan authorities for further investigation, as the origin of the fires remains unknown.
Libya’s Al-Asbi’ah region, already facing instability, is now grappling with the impact of these unexplained blazes. The Maltese team provided on-site evaluations and strategic recommendations to improve response capabilities.
Malta’s Minister for Home Affairs, Byron Camilleri, praised the mission, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in crisis situations. He stressed that Malta remains committed to extending humanitarian aid beyond its borders and ensuring regional stability.
“This mission reflects how our Civil Protection Department is not only safeguarding Maltese families but is also ready to assist other nations during emergencies,” Camilleri said.
Peter Paul Coleiro, Director General of Malta’s Civil Protection Department, expressed appreciation for the cooperation received from Libya’s National Centre for Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management. He also praised the dedication of the Maltese officers involved in the operation.
This mission adds to Malta’s growing record of international humanitarian response. The country has previously supported emergency efforts in Greece, Turkey, and other disaster-stricken regions through EU-led operations.
The Maltese government confirmed it will continue to participate in such missions, reinforcing its position as a dependable partner in regional and global emergency response efforts, especially in neighbouring Libya.
