The situation in Libya has become even more tense in the Zintan region following the kidnapping, a week ago, of Mustafa al-Whayshi, brigadier general and director of the Central Security Department within the Libyan intelligence services. This kidnapping, for which those responsible have not yet been identified, provoked a wave of indignation and protests from the inhabitants of Zintan, who are demanding clear answers and concrete actions from the government of Tripoli.
As a form of pressure, the inhabitants of Zintan decided to close the oil valves, and thus cut off the flow of this precious resource. Oil is often used as a lever for political pressure in Libya, a country whose economy depends heavily on this resource. This decision to block oil could have significant repercussions on the national economy, as well as on the political stability of the Tripoli government, led by Abdelhamid Dbeibah.
Ensure the rapid release of Mustafa al-Whayshi
In a video statement released by Zintan notables, local officials expressed their dissatisfaction with the Tripoli authorities. They believe that Dbeibah’s government and the Presidential Council, both based in the capital, are responsible for the safety of their officers and must ensure the rapid release of Mustafa al-Whayshi. The anger of the Zintanis testifies to the deep distrust that persists between Tripoli and certain Libyan regions, where the feeling of abandonment and marginalization remains strong.
Zintan is a mountainous city in western Libya, which has often demonstrated autonomy in national affairs. It has sometimes found itself in opposition to the authorities of Tripoli, especially since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. This independence has been reinforced by the presence of well-organized local militias which play a key role in the defense of the city and of his interests. The kidnapping of a high-ranking officer from Zintan therefore puts to the test the already tense relations between this city and the central government.
Towards a rise in oil prices?
Kidnappings of high-ranking officers are not uncommon in this country plagued by internal conflicts, where militias and armed groups often exercise their own law. Acts of violence which further compromise the stability and security of Libyan institutions, already weakened by years of civil war and internal divisions.
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Closing the oil floodgates could trigger a prolonged shutdown of Libyan oil exports and contribute to a rise in oil prices on international markets. Especially since the country plays a central role in global energy supply. Tensions around this strategic resource risk capturing the attention of international actors seeking stability in this region.
Very tense situation in Zintan
The authorities in Tripoli reacted by calling for an investigation to find Mustafa al-Whayshi, but for the moment, no precise information has been communicated on the perpetrators of this kidnapping. Dbeibah’s government also faces calls from the international community to maintain security and prevent the country from descending again into violent confrontations between rival factions.
Zintan notables warned that the closure of the oil valves would remain in effect until the kidnapped officer was found and those responsible were identified. The situation therefore remains tense in Libya, where conflicts of interest and regional rivalries continue to fuel political and security crises.
