A key oil refinery in western Libya, the Zawiya facility, suspended operations due to armed clashes that caused significant damage and fires. The National Oil Corporation declared force majeure following the incident. Although casualties have been reported, emergency teams have controlled the fires, and the NOC assures continued fuel supply to local stations. The clashes have prompted school closures and affected transportation links.
The Zawiya oil refinery in western Libya has halted operations following armed clashes that erupted early Sunday morning, resulting in significant damage to several storage tanks. The National Oil Corporation (NOC) reported that gunfire led to serious fires within the refinery. Despite the ongoing violence, emergency personnel successfully managed to control the fires and prevent further hazards. The refinery plays a crucial role in supplying fuel to the local market, and the NOC assured that fuel deliveries would continue without disruption. The clashes, which left at least one person dead and ten others injured, prompted the closure of schools in Zawiya and led to road closures; however, the key road to Tripoli has since reopened. Despite frequent clashes and past disruptions, Libya’s oil production had recently increased, attributed to improved security and investment.
The Zawiya refinery is Libya’s second largest and crucial for local fuel supply, processing over 120,000 barrels of oil per day. Libya possesses Africa’s largest hydrocarbon reserves but has faced severe disruptions in oil production due to prolonged conflicts following the 2011 uprising that overthrew former leader Moamer Kadhafi. The ongoing instability often leads to blockades of key oil installations, affecting both domestic and international oil delivery contracts.
The recent suspension of operations at Zawiya refinery highlights the ongoing instability in Libya, driven by armed conflicts that jeopardize both safety and energy supplies. Although the National Oil Corporation has declared a force majeure which provides legal protection against delivery liabilities, the situation stresses the fragility of Libya’s oil production capabilities amidst continuous violence. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to stabilize and enhance fuel supply operations in the region.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
