Libya’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdulhadi Al-Hwaij, has confirmed that officials from a Tunisian aid convoy have issued a formal apology for what were described as “unintentional insults” directed at Libya.
Speaking in a phone interview with Al-Massar TV, Al-Hwaij clarified that Libyan authorities had provided essential support to the Algerian-bound convoy, which initially lacked key provisions. He emphasized that the Libyan government acted in the spirit of humanitarian solidarity.
Al-Hwaij noted that the Tunisian delegation leading the convoy had officially apologized, describing the earlier misconduct as not reflective of Tunisia’s people, values, or culture. “Our ties with Tunisia are historically rooted and deeply respected. Both sides reject this kind of behavior,” he stated.
The minister further explained that some external groups, not part of the convoy, attempted to exploit the incident for their own political or personal agendas. “We were told that certain individuals tried to ride the wave of the event, but they were never involved in the convoy’s mission,” he added.
Al-Hwaij concluded by stressing that the purpose of the convoy is strictly humanitarian. “We made it clear that the tools and means used by the convoy must remain ethical and humane.”
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.
