Major General Khaled Al-Sarir, Deputy Head of Libya’s Anti-Illegal Migration Authority (affiliated with the eastern-based government), has confirmed that Libya is prepared to enhance cooperation with the United Kingdom to stop the flow of irregular migrants before they reach the English Channel.
In an interview with the British “The Telegraph” newspaper, Al-Sarir emphasized that Libya is not the final destination for most migrants, but rather a transit hub. He stated that many migrants move through Libya hoping to cross the Mediterranean and reach Europe, especially Britain, which he said “markets itself as the ideal destination.”
“We are the ones trying to resolve this crisis with almost no international support,” Al-Sarir said. “We are not looking for funding, what we need is the exchange of expertise.”
Al-Sarir also criticized long-term United Nations sanctions imposed on Libya, which he says restrict access to critical surveillance and rescue equipment needed to combat human trafficking and control borders effectively.
He warned that “opportunists” in Libya exploit the hopes of African youth aiming to reach Europe, and that international collaboration is essential to stop such exploitation.
Libya has seen a surge in migrant departures in 2025, with many attempting to reach Europe via dangerous sea routes. The country remains a key departure point for asylum seekers and economic migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa.
According to The Telegraph, UK officials have shown early interest in deepening cooperation with Libya, including discussions around potential joint processing facilities, especially as London looks for alternatives to the failing Rwanda deportation plan.
A UK Home Office spokesperson reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to working with foreign governments to disrupt smuggling networks and improve border security, citing ongoing support for IOM programs in Libya that focus on voluntary return and migrant reintegration.
