A Libyan prisoner in Italy has sparked widespread rights concerns after sewing his mouth shut and launching a hunger strike, drawing renewed attention to a group of Libyan detainees held in Italian prisons for over a decade.
The incident involves Mohannad Kheshayba, who appeared in a widely circulated video stating he had begun an open-ended hunger and thirst strike in protest against his detention conditions. He said he had been placed in solitary confinement following an altercation with prison staff after threatening self-harm.
Kheshayba said he had spent around 11 years in prison and claimed that previous promises had been made to transfer him and others to Libya to complete their sentences. “I will end the strike if we are returned to Libya or if authorities confirm this is impossible,” he said in the recording.
The case has reignited debate over five Libyan nationals convicted in Italy in 2015 on charges linked to human trafficking and irregular migration. They were sentenced to 30 years in prison, though their families say they had travelled in pursuit of professional football opportunities.
Rights groups have described the protest as a sign of deep psychological distress. A Libyan human rights organisation said the act reflects “extreme despair” and warned of a potential humanitarian crisis if the situation continues without intervention.
The issue has also renewed focus on Libya’s broader political and legal challenges, including coordination between eastern and western authorities on international agreements.
Activists have urged Libyan leaders to take urgent action to activate a prisoner transfer agreement signed with Italy in 2023, which was later ratified by the Italian parliament.
However, no official response has yet been issued by Libyan or Italian authorities regarding the latest developments.
Observers say the case highlights ongoing legal and diplomatic challenges, with calls growing for a resolution that balances justice, humanitarian concerns, and bilateral cooperation between Libya and Italy.