Libyan cities protest normalisation of Israel relations

Several Libyan cities erupt in protest, in a display of rejection to a perceived normalisation of relations with Israel, Middle East Monitor reported on January 12th.

Tajoura, Bani Walid, Al Zawiya and the capitol, Tripoli have seen widespread demonstrations, condemning recent government actions over the past week, starting 6th January.

Protesters in Tripoli blocked the Bivi Road linking the capital to the east, burning tyres and erecting barriers, causing severe traffic disruptions. Similar demonstrations erupted in Misrata, the hometown of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, with citizens marching through the main square, denouncing what they perceive to be an increasingly pro-Zionist government.

This follows former Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush’s admission that her controversial August 2023 meeting with former Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen was arranged by the government in Tripoli

In the interview broadcast by Al Jazeera’s 360 platform, Al-Mangoush said that the meeting came after “contact and coordination between the Israeli side and the Government of National Unity,” adding: “I was not a party to arranging the meeting’s agenda. The government arranged it and I delivered the message.”

The Middle East Eye reported that the meeting between Al-Mangoush and Cohen was an historic first for the two countries, as Libya does not have formal relations with, nor does it recognise Israel.

Al-Mangoush defended her actions, stating that the discussions focused on Libyan security and resources, not normalisation. She also expressed solidarity with Palestine during the meeting, stating: “I informed Cohen about the Libyan people’s point of view and our feelings in support of the Palestinians and rejection of the Israeli government’s policies.”

She went on to elaborate that she was simply doing her job as a diplomat, and criticises Dbeiheh’s handling of the situation. “The issue would have been resolved simply if Dbeibah had spoken directly, addressed the Libyan people and revealed the truth.”

Dbeibeh’s government has faced increasing criticism, with protesters accusing it of betraying Libya’s long-standing stance against Zionism and the occupation state. The Prime Minister has denied support for normalisation and dismissed the protests, claiming his opponents are manipulating public sentiment.

Middle East Monitor