In Libya, the presence of Turkish warships in the strategic port of al-Khoms is causing controversy. While Libya’s national unity government denies ceding port rights to Turkey, videos circulating on social media show two Turkish frigates hoisting the Turkish flag and mooring in the port. This situation has triggered the anger of demonstrators who denounce a “new occupation” and the lying attitude of the Libyan government.
According to Turkish and Libyan security sources, the Libyan interim government has actually granted Turkey the use of this port for a period of 99 years. Despite the denials of the Libyan government, the images of Turkish military ships in the port of al-Khoms testify to the reality of this situation.
This Turkish occupation of the port of al-Khoms also sparked demonstrations on the spot. Hundreds of port workers, whose jobs are threatened by the arrival of the Turkish military, have expressed their anger. Some local armed groups have also mobilized against this Turkish presence, claiming that it is an illegitimate occupation. The situation became tense, with threats from local armed groups against the Turkish military presence.
It should be noted that Turkey already has three military bases in Libya: al-Witya airbase, Sidi Bilal, a port near Tripoli, and now al-Khoms port. These military bases are the result of economic and military agreements signed between Turkey and the Libyan government in 2019, which were revised and corrected in 2022.
This new occupation of the port of al-Khoms by Turkey raises questions about Turkey’s intentions in Libya and the future of the political and security situation in the country. Tensions between the different actors in Libya are likely to intensify, and it is crucial to find a diplomatic solution to avoid an escalation of violence.
In a context where Libya is already plagued by internal conflicts and regional rivalries, this new foreign interference only worsens the situation. It is imperative that the international community intervene to facilitate a process of peace and reconciliation in Libya, and to put an end to the foreign interference which compromises the stability of the country.
In conclusion, Turkey’s use of the port of al-Khoms in Libya is causing controversy and fueling tensions in the country. While the Libyan government denies having granted the rights to this port to Turkey, the images of Turkish military ships in the port testify to the reality of this occupation. This situation raises concerns about the future of Libya and the region, and requires diplomatic intervention to find a peaceful solution and end foreign interference