The head of the East Tripoli Migrant Detention Centre, Brigadier Nour al-Din al-Quritli, held talks with Iraq’s Ambassador to Libya, Ahmad al-Sahhaf, and Consul General Mazahir al-Saray on cooperation to address the situation of Iraqi nationals held in Libya for irregular migration.
According to the Libyan News Agency (LANA), the discussions focused on facilitating the repatriation of Iraqis who were rescued by Libyan authorities during attempts to cross the Mediterranean. The centre’s chief briefed the Iraqi delegation on the services provided, including shelter, food, and healthcare for all detainees, among them Iraqi nationals.
Brigadier al-Quritli praised the role of Iraqi consular officials in actively supporting their citizens. He noted their efforts to issue travel documents and tickets, enabling a smooth process for voluntary return. He emphasised that the centre remains committed to providing humanitarian care to all migrants, regardless of nationality.
Ambassador al-Sahhaf highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Libya and Iraq, commending the work of Libyan security bodies in tackling irregular migration. He said Iraq is committed to cooperating with Libyan authorities to ensure the safe and dignified return of its citizens.
The Iraqi delegation visited detainees at the East Tripoli centre, inspecting their conditions and assuring them of ongoing support. Ambassador al-Sahhaf pledged that the necessary steps would be taken swiftly to finalise repatriation procedures.
Libya has long been a transit hub for migrants seeking to reach Europe. Thousands remain held in centres across the country, with international organisations repeatedly calling for improved humanitarian conditions and voluntary return programmes.
