Heavy armed clashes erupted in the western Libyan city of Al-Zawiya on Friday, forcing the shutdown of the city’s oil refinery and preventing emergency teams from reaching affected areas, according to Libyan officials and rescue authorities.
Osama Ali, spokesperson for the Ambulance and Emergency Service, said most ambulances had been deployed around the areas witnessing clashes but were unable to enter due to the intensity of the fighting.
Ali appealed to the armed groups involved to immediately halt hostilities to allow medical teams access to emergency cases and civilians trapped in conflict zones.
The violence prompted the declaration of a state of emergency at the Zawiya Oil Refining Company after shelling and explosions were reported near the facility. Residents reported hearing heavy weapons fire and loud detonations across several districts of Al-Zawiya.
A source from the Libyan Red Crescent branch in Al-Zawiya said the organisation had received numerous distress calls from residents amid growing panic and fear caused by the clashes.
The Red Crescent urged residents to remain inside their homes and stay away from doors and windows until the security situation stabilises. The Emergency Medicine and Support Centre in Al-Zawiya also warned citizens against leaving their homes except in cases of extreme necessity.
Meanwhile, the city’s Endowments and Islamic Affairs Office called for worshippers to avoid mosques located in conflict areas and instead attend prayers in safer locations ahead of Friday prayers.
In a statement, the Zawiya Oil Refining Company announced a complete suspension of refinery operations and the evacuation of oil tankers from the port to protect workers and infrastructure. The company said heavy-calibre shells had struck operational areas inside the facility and urged all parties to cease fire immediately.
The company also called on official authorities to intervene urgently and prevent armed conflict from threatening vital economic infrastructure.
Earlier, Al-Zawiya Security Directorate announced the launch of a large-scale security operation targeting criminal hideouts, wanted individuals and groups accused of threatening public security and social stability.