02 Oct 2017 | 06:32 PM UTC
Libya: Port of Benghazi reopens Oct. 1
Commercial port of Benghazi reopens October 1 after three years of inactivity
Event
The commercial port of Benghazi reopened on Sunday, October 1. The port was officially closed in 2014 when armed Islamist groups took control of the city. In July 2017, Libyan National Army (LNA) forces led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar managed to expel the groups from the city after three years of fighting.
To boost commercial activity, port officials announced a temporary exemption from customs duties on imports through Benghazi.
Context
Following the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi, Libya has been divided into rival governments and factions with their own militias and political parties. The security situation in Libya remains precarious and there is little to no sign of a return of relative stability in the near-term.
Advice
The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
