The Libyan government designated by the House of Representatives has announced the first voluntary deportation operation from Sebha Airport in over 15 years. The move involved the repatriation of 157 undocumented Chadian migrants, and signals the government’s continued rejection of migrant resettlement in Libya.
The operation was overseen by Foreign Minister Abdulhadi Al-Hwaij during his inspection visit to Sebha Airport. According to a statement from the foreign ministry, Al-Hwaij closely monitored the procedures and personally interacted with some of the migrants before their departure, wishing them a safe return home.
The deportation was carried out in coordination with the Department for Combating Illegal Migration under the Ministry of Interior, along with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Authorities described the mission as a coordinated effort between national institutions and international partners.
Al-Hwaij reiterated the Libyan Parliament-designate government’s firm stance against any proposals to resettle migrants in Libya or turn the country into a border guard for Europe. He stressed that Libya “rejects any attempt to make it a destination for illegal migration or a holding zone for migrants destined for Europe.”
The foreign minister called for a “comprehensive and sustainable approach” to the migration issue, highlighting the need for joint efforts between countries of origin, transit, and destination. He urged regional and international collaboration to tackle the underlying causes of irregular migration.
Libya remains a major transit hub for African migrants trying to reach Europe. However, the eastern-based government has repeatedly voiced its opposition to becoming a long-term host for migrants.
