The Iraqi Embassy in Libya announced today the voluntary return of 12 Iraqi nationals who had been detained in Libya due to illegal migration.
Acting Chargé d’Affaires Ahmed Al-Sahhaf stated that, following two months of coordination with Libyan authorities, the embassy successfully secured the release of 12 young Iraqis who had entered Libya with the aim of migrating illegally to Europe.
The embassy provided food, medical care, and high-level support to ensure their safety from human trafficking networks. Al-Sahhaf also highlighted the embassy’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness among Iraqi youth about the dangers of falling prey to human smuggling, which poses legal risks, life-threatening dangers, and financial extortion.
This marks another success for the embassy, which had facilitated the voluntary return of over 25 Iraqi nationals in 2024. The initiative aligns with Iraq’s commitment to promoting voluntary repatriation and safeguarding its citizens abroad.
High-level coordination between the embassy, Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Baghdad, and the Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee enabled the smooth return of these individuals. The embassy also arranged travel tickets in collaboration with relevant authorities.
The statement reiterated Iraq’s dedication to protecting its citizens from human trafficking networks and ensuring their safe return home.
