The General Authority for Hajj and Umrah Affairs in Libya has announced the arrival of the final group of Libyan pilgrims to the holy city of Mecca on Saturday, marking the completion of this year’s Hajj departures.
The last group, departing from Benina International Airport in Benghazi, was part of the Benghazi coordination office and left under tight organisational and medical supervision. The Emergency Medicine and Support Centre, the official medical sponsor for this year’s Hajj season, oversaw the procedures.
A fully equipped emergency clinic was set up inside the airport to conduct thorough medical examinations before departure. Pilgrims also received the necessary preventive vaccinations and health guidance to ensure their safety throughout the journey, according to Libya’s state news agency, LANA.
Medical teams were on standby around the clock, supported by mobile ambulance units to respond to any emergencies during the final phase of deployment.
The centre reported that a total of 1,678 pilgrims benefited from medical services, with 471 medical procedures conducted. The efforts are part of a comprehensive plan aimed at providing the highest standards of healthcare and ensuring a smooth and secure travel process for all departing pilgrims.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
