Eastern Libya Bars Citizens of Four African Nations From Entering Territory
Libya’s eastern administration has announced a ban on the entry of citizens from four African countries, a move authorities say is part of efforts to tighten and reorganize immigration controls across areas under its jurisdiction.
Under the new directive, nationals of Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia will no longer be permitted to enter eastern Libya through land borders, airports or seaports.
Officials aligned with the administration in Benghazi said the measure is intended to regulate the movement of foreign nationals and strengthen oversight of entry procedures. No timeline was provided for how long the restrictions will remain in place.
The order, however, excludes accredited diplomats, consular staff and their immediate family members from the affected countries.
Health professionals, educators and other specialized workers may also be granted entry provided they secure the necessary approvals and valid employment contracts from relevant authorities.
The eastern government, headed by Prime Minister Osama Hamad, operates separately from Libya’s internationally recognized administration based in Tripoli.
The Benghazi-based authority is backed by military commander Khalifa Haftar, whose forces control much of eastern and southern Libya.
Libya has remained politically divided for years, with rival administrations competing for authority since the overthrow of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.
The North African nation has also become a major transit point for migrants and asylum seekers attempting to reach Europe through the Mediterranean Sea.
Thousands fleeing conflict, insecurity and economic hardship across Africa continue to pass through Libya each year, often undertaking dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities abroad.
The latest restrictions come as Libyan authorities face increasing pressure to manage migration flows and tighten border controls amid ongoing security and political challenges.
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