Armed clashes in western Libya have forced the Zawiya refinery to suspend operations after causing significant damage to storage tanks and fires. The National Oil Corporation has declared force majeure while confirming that local fuel supplies will continue despite the unrest. The refinery is vital for regional fuel distribution.
A significant oil refinery in western Libya has ceased operations as a consequence of armed clashes that erupted early on Sunday. The National Oil Corporation (NOC) reported that gunfire caused severe damage to several storage tanks at the Zawiya refinery, which subsequently led to fires. Despite the ongoing violence, emergency response teams managed to control the fires and mitigate gas leaks, ensuring that fuel supplies to local distribution points remained secure. Reports indicate one fatality and several injuries, while the refinery continues to be a critical supply source for the region.
The Zawiya refinery, established in 1974, represents Libya’s second largest oil refining capacity, able to process over 120,000 barrels per day. This facility is crucial for meeting the local demand for fuel. Libya, endowed with Africa’s richest hydrocarbon resources, has struggled with the ramifications of conflict that followed the 2011 uprising leading to the fall of longtime leader Moamer Kadhafi. The instability has frequently resulted in disruptions to oil production and distribution, affecting the economy significantly.
In summary, the armed confrontations that led to the Zawiya refinery’s operational halt emphasize the persistent security risks that jeopardize Libya’s vital oil sector. The NOC’s declaration of force majeure underscores the challenges faced in ensuring continuous fuel supply amid ongoing violence, even as emergency personnel work to stabilize the situation. Such incidents highlight the fragile security environment in Libya and its implications for national oil production and economic recovery.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
