Libya Halts Operations at Critical Zawiya Oil Refinery Following Intense Armed Clashes

Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has officially declared a state of "force majeure" and suspended all operations at the Zawiya oil refinery. The decision comes in the wake of violent armed confrontations between rival factions that erupted in the vicinity of the facility, posing a severe threat to the country’s energy infrastructure.

The clashes, which involved the use of medium and heavy weaponry, resulted in significant damage to several storage units within the refinery complex. According to official statements from the NOC, the crossfire sparked multiple fires across the site. While emergency response teams and firefighters managed to bring the blazes under control, the technical integrity of the facility remains compromised.

Located approximately 45 kilometers west of Tripoli, the Zawiya refinery is a cornerstone of the Libyan economy. With a processing capacity of 120,000 barrels per day, it serves as the primary source of fuel and petroleum products for the capital and the western regions of the country.

"The safety of our employees and the protection of national resources are our top priorities," a spokesperson for the NOC stated. "The declaration of force majeure is a necessary step to mitigate legal liabilities and ensure the safety of the site until security is restored."

Local sources reported that the fighting caused panic among residents, leading to the temporary closure of schools and the main coastal road. While the NOC has assured the public that current fuel reserves are sufficient to prevent immediate shortages, experts warn that a prolonged shutdown could lead to a domestic energy crisis.

The incident highlights the ongoing fragility of Libya’s oil sector, which remains a frequent target for armed groups seeking political leverage or economic control. As the government attempts to stabilize the region, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, fearing further disruptions to global energy markets already sensitive to North African supply chains.