Politics & Security
Puntland Piracy Crisis Deepens: 67 Held in a Year
Libya, which holds Africa’s largest proven oil reserves, has been facing severe fuel shortages following attacks on oil facilities in Zawiya and prolonged power outages. Hundreds of vehicles have formed long queues at fuel stations across the country.
Recent clashes between armed groups in Zawiya, including drone attacks targeting oil facilities, have disrupted refinery operations. Although Libya’s National Oil Corporation said production had resumed and there was no reason for fuel shortages, long queues have persisted for around 10 days.
The crisis has been worsened by daily power cuts lasting between four and ten hours. Fuel stations without generators are unable to operate during outages, while Libyans are also lining up to buy fuel for generators.
Residents say shortages are affecting not only Tripoli but other cities as well. Some people have traveled long distances simply to fill their vehicles, while diesel prices have reportedly risen sharply.
Public anxiety has further intensified the situation, with drivers rushing to fill their tanks and some residents stockpiling fuel in containers. Diesel shortages are also raising concerns for hospitals and other essential services that depend on generators.
Libyans interviewed at fuel stations called on authorities to urgently address the country’s electricity, fuel and infrastructure problems, saying repeated shortages have placed an increasing burden on ordinary citizens.
