Osama Hammad, head of the Libyan government appointed by the House of Representatives, announced strict legal measures prohibiting the entry of citizens from four Arab and African countries into Libyan territory. The decision, issued on Tuesday, included nationals from Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia. This ban will be enforced across all land, sea, and air border crossings without exception.
Official sources clarified that the decision included specific exceptions for members of diplomatic and consular missions officially accredited to the Libyan state, as well as their family members who enjoy diplomatic immunities and privileges. This exception aims to uphold international obligations and diplomatic agreements concluded with these countries within the framework of official representation.
The decision also permitted certain professional categories to enter and work, specifically those working in the education sector and medical and paramedical professions. These individuals are required to obtain prior approvals and legal employment contracts accredited by the competent authorities in Libya, to ensure filling the deficit in these vital sectors in accordance with the laws and regulations in force in the country.
In the context of field implementation, the head of government tasked the Ministry of Interior with immediate coordination to begin implementing the provisions of the decision and monitoring border crossings with high precision. The mandate included direct instructions to take all necessary legal measures to deport individuals belonging to these nationalities if they do not possess valid residency permits within Libyan territory.
Although the government has not officially disclosed the direct security or political motives behind this sudden decision, observers link it to the escalating migration crisis. Regions in eastern and southern Libya, under the control of the appointed government, have witnessed intensive security campaigns in recent weeks targeting irregular migrant gathering centers.
Libya has suffered for years from massive human flows, with official estimates indicating the presence of millions of irregular migrants who use the country as a transit point to Europe. Human trafficking networks exploit the existing political division and security vacuum in some areas to enhance their illegal activities, increasing pressure on infrastructure and national security.
This move comes at a time when authorities in eastern Libya are seeking to impose greater control over their vast borders, especially in light of the security unrest in neighboring countries such as Sudan. These measures are part of a broader strategy aimed at regulating foreign presence and reducing the security and economic repercussions of irregular migration.
The entry of nationals from Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia into Libyan territory is prohibited through all land, sea, and air crossings.
שתף את דעתך
Osama Hammad's Government Bans Entry of Sudanese, Ethiopian, Eritrean, and Somali Citizens into Libya