In brief
Tensions rise as the possibility of deported immigrants being sent to war-torn Libya encounters resistance from both rival governments.
In a surprising twist, both of Libya's rival governments have categorically denied any agreement to accept deported immigrants from the United States. U.S. officials had announced plans to transfer deported migrants to Libya's divided landscape, potentially on military flights as soon as this week. However, both the internationally recognized government in Tripoli and the eastern authorities under warlord Khalifa Hifter quickly repudiated the notion, asserting that any such action would violate Libya’s sovereignty.The Tripoli government issued a firm statement rejecting “any agreement or coordination” regarding the deportation of migrants, emphasizing that Libyan territory should not be utilized for such purposes without its consent. They also hinted at the possibility that “parallel entities,” a reference to Hifter’s forces, might have made secret agreements with Washington but clarified that these would not represent the official stance of Libya.Meanwhile, Hifter's foreign ministry reinforced its rejection of any understanding regarding the resettlement of deportees, regardless of nationality. Notably, while the U.S. government maintains formal relations solely with the Tripoli leadership, it was reported that Hifter’s son recently met with top officials in Washington, insinuating a potential unofficial deal.The prospect of deporting migrants to Libya is particularly controversial due to the country’s notorious track record of mistreating refugees. Amnesty International has previously likened migrant detention centers in Libya to “hellscapes,” where individuals face alarming levels of abuse, including torture and forced labor. As both Libyan governments stand united against the deportation plans, the future of these potential flights remains uncertain.
