The long-standing case of Hannibal Gaddafi, son of late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has entered a crucial new chapter as mediation efforts intensify between Libyan and Lebanese stakeholders. Hannibal has been detained in Lebanon since 2015 without a formal trial, raising international concerns over his health and legal status.
According to exclusive information obtained by An-Nahar, Lebanese authorities remain cautious despite being open to a fair resolution. Officials fear that releasing Gaddafi could trigger domestic political tensions and threaten security in the streets. This concern has prompted Faisal Al-Feituri, head of the Libyan-American Coalition, to open direct communication channels with the family of Imam Musa al-Sadr and senior figures in the Amal Movement, including its leader and Lebanese Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri.
Al-Feituri revealed plans to visit Beirut early next month. His visit, coordinated with American stakeholders, aims to build trust and establish the foundation for a comprehensive agreement. He stated that the discussions would focus on ensuring Hannibal Gaddafi’s safe release in exchange for Libya’s full cooperation in uncovering the fate of Imam al-Sadr, who disappeared in Libya in 1978.
The proposed deal includes formal guarantees from the Libyan-American Coalition and assurances from prominent US senators. It also suggests appointing an honorary Libyan consul in Beirut to facilitate legal and diplomatic coordination. “It’s time to resolve this file with courage and restore moral and humanitarian balance,” said Al-Feituri.
Meanwhile, Gaddafi’s lawyer, Salah Mohammed, warned of the deteriorating health of his client, who remains in solitary confinement and was hospitalised last week for hypertension. He labelled the prolonged detention a “crime against humanity” and urged Lebanese authorities to act swiftly.
