A report published by The Wall Street Journal has revealed that Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbaiba, has allegedly entered into discussions with the administration of US President Donald Trump over a controversial proposal: accepting deported migrants from the United States in exchange for political support.
According to the report, Libyan officials engaged with members of the Trump administration during January and February 2025.
During these conversations, representatives of the Dbaiba government reportedly expressed their willingness to receive individuals with criminal records who were being deported from the United States. In return, the Libyan side sought a clearer signal of political backing from Washington that could help bolster the GNU’s fragile standing in the face of mounting domestic and international pressures.
The article characterizes the Dbaiba-led administration as struggling with serious internal challenges, including economic strain and the persistent influence of competing militias in the country.
The alleged motivation behind the deal was to secure greater international legitimacy, particularly from the United States, in a moment where the GNU’s hold on power appears increasingly tenuous.
The revelations have triggered concern among Libyan observers and international rights organizations. Critics argue that such a deal, if confirmed, could pose grave risks to national security, public safety, and the humanitarian situation in Libya, particularly given the country’s already overburdened detention infrastructure and fragile rule of law.
Libya has long served as both a destination and a transit point for migrants, many of whom face arbitrary detention, trafficking, and violence. Accepting additional deportees, especially those with criminal histories, could further destabilize vulnerable communities and overwhelm local institutions.
So far, neither the Dbaiba government nor US officials have publicly confirmed or denied the details in The Wall Street Journal’s report.
