Eastern Libyan Force has intercepted Turkish ship. The ship bearing a Jamaican flag was heading to the Port of Misrata, Western Libya. Libyan forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar reportedly seized the ship with its 17 crew members. 9 of whom are Turkish citizens. Haftar says the ship failed to comply with maritime instructions. According to Ahmed AL-Mismari, Haftar`s spokesman, the ship entered a restricted area and failed to heed when requested to turn. The sheep are owned by a Turk national. Haftar`s militia was quick to respond as the ship docked at port Ras al-Hilal.
Turkey- Libya tensions
The two nations have had uninterrupted several weeks of truce. However, it is feared that the incident with the ship might give rise to new conflicts. Turkey is the main foreign back up in the International Government of National Accord (GNA) west of Libya. The GNA has been in constant conflicts with the Libyan National Army (LNA), based in the East.
The intercepted Turkish ship`s Cargo
The ship was transporting medicine alongside other medical products from Egypt to Libya. The Turkish source also confirmed that the ship was not on any illegal business and should be released. Patients are in dire need of the products, and there is urgency in delivering the medical supplies.
Suspicions arise that the LNA might be under the influence of the Irini operation of the European Union. A military operation that is against the arms deal in Libya. Last month a similar incident took place with a Turkish ship again.
Peace efforts
To put an end to the existing conflicts, both parties signed a ceasefire agreement in October. The United Nations as well have chipped to enact a political dialogue between the GNA and LNA. It is expected that this will bring an end to the long conflicts. However, the two parties seem to be retaliating on the agreed-upon measures.
On Sunday, LNA forces apprehended a military camp. Additionally, Mismari accuses Turkey of supplying arms and fighters to the GNA. LNA is operating under the back up of Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. UN has consequently sought foreign supporters of both sides to help achieve a peaceable society.
More:
- Libya Unity Government Capture Strategic Cities from Rebels.
- Russia and Turkey Takes the Lead to Offer a Solution to the Libya Crisis
- Talks Aimed at Unifying Government of Libya to Begin
