Violent Clashes Erupt at Zawiya Oil Refinery in Libya
Violent clashes broke out early Sunday morning between armed groups near the Zawiya oil refinery in western Libya, leading to significant damage and prompting the National Oil Corporation (NOC) to declare a state of "force majeure." The clashes resulted in gunfire hitting the refinery's tanks, causing serious fires and exposing the facility to dangerous conditions. The NOC has called on the Government of National Unity, led by Abdul Hamid Dabaiba, to intervene and restore order to prevent further civilian casualties and damage to the refinery.
State of Emergency Declared Amid Ongoing Violence
The NOC announced that a maximum-level emergency was declared after several tanks were severely damaged during the clashes. The ongoing violence, attributed to armed groups operating in the region, poses a significant risk not only to the refinery but also to the surrounding civilian population. The corporation reported that security personnel managed to control the fires and gas leaks, but the situation remains precarious as clashes continue in the vicinity. The NOC emphasized the need for immediate action from relevant authorities to protect oil sites from further conflict.
Historical Context of Armed Conflict in Zawiya
Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, armed groups have established a strong presence in Zawiya, approximately 40 kilometers west of Tripoli. These groups have engaged in smuggling subsidized fuel, which has bolstered their financial and military capabilities, leading to increased frequency and intensity of clashes in recent years. The struggle for control over oil revenues has further exacerbated tensions between the internationally recognized Government of National Unity and the rival government appointed by the House of Representatives. The ongoing conflict underscores the broader crisis in Libya regarding the fair distribution of oil revenues and the need for a unified approach to governance.
