The Libyan government decided on Tuesday to close all mosques across the country, asking people to perform the five daily prayers in their homes.
The step comes as authorities are trying to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19 inside Libyan territory.
In a statement, the government said that the decision to suspend public prayers in mosques aims to protect the Libyan people against the potential threat of Coronavirus.
The government added that its decision was prompted by reports that individuals are particularly at risk of contracting the virus in crowded places such as mosques, markets, cafes, and other public venues.
The General Authority of Endowments and Islamic Affairs said that the decision came after consultation with the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Health and the National Center for Disease Control.