The Libyan Illegal Immigration Control Agency held a high-level security meeting at the headquarters of the Libyan Coast Guard, under the General Command of the Libyan Armed Forces. The meeting included the head of the Illegal Immigration Control Agency, Major General Salah Mahmoud Al-Khafeefi, alongside senior officials from the Coast Guard.
The meeting was convened under the direct orders of the General Command of the Libyan Armed Forces and direct instructions from the Commander of the Army’s Ground Forces, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar. It is part of Libya’s ongoing national efforts to secure its borders and curb illegal migration and all forms of cross-border smuggling.
During the talks, the parties agreed to establish a joint security room between the two agencies to develop a comprehensive coordination mechanism aimed at tackling illegal migration and dismantling cross-border smuggling networks. This decision comes after the effective deployment of desert patrol units, which have proven successful in covering vast areas of Libya’s southern and eastern deserts beyond the positions of the armed forces.
The second phase of the security plan will focus on securing and monitoring Libya’s coastline through full coordination with the Libyan Armed Forces. This integrated national system will operate from the coast deep into the desert borders, ensuring the protection of Libya’s territory and sovereignty.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
