Tripoli, Libya — Eastern Libya Banning African Nationals: A New Barrier in the Country’s Complex Reality In a recent and unexpected move, the eastern-based government of Libya, located in Benghazi, has implemented a decree banning nationals from Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, and Ethiopia from entering the territory under its control. This decision, effective as of June 24, 2026, covers all entry points, including land, sea, and air ports, severely impacting citizens of the four African countries.
The decree’s announcement follows what a government source described as a “reorganization of foreign nationals’ entry to Libya. “.
The Benghazi — based government, aligned with military commander Khalifa Haftar, currently controls the eastern regions and significant areas of southern Libya. This situation reflects the ongoing political and security challenges in the country, which have been exacerbated by the lack of a unified government since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.
The decree has been met with mixed reactions.
While some view it as a measure to control the influx of migrants and refugees into the eastern regions, critics argue that the ban is discriminatory and may worsen the plight of African nationals who are already vulnerable.
The move could force them into illegal and dangerous routes to reach Libya, increasing their risk of exploitation and human rights abuses.
The ban’s implications are significant, both for the migration and refugee situation in Libya and for the country’s relationship with the African countries involved.
Libya’s complex political landscape has made it a focal point for migration and refugee flows. Since the fall of Gaddafi, the country has become a transit route for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty, primarily destined for Europe.
The presence of over 900,000 migrants in the country has further strained the resources and social fabric of local communities.
The internationally recognized government in Tripoli, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, has not yet publicly responded to the eastern government’s decree.
The absence of a coordinated response from the Libyan government raises concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict and the impact on the vulnerable populations caught in the middle.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial to monitor the reactions from the African Union and other international bodies.
The ban could also have broader implications for regional security and cooperation, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aim to promote integration and economic development across the continent.
In the meantime, the decree stands as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Libya and the wider region.
The ban on African nationals from entering the country’s eastern regions may have immediate implications for the affected individuals, but its long-term consequences are yet to be fully understood.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Google News
