Libya: Authorities in eastern region impose nightly 19:00-07:00 curfew through April 2 due to COVID-19 activity /update 23

Event

Authorities in eastern Libya have imposed a nightly 19:00-07:00 curfew through April 2 as part of their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19. The directive requires that nonessential shops remain closed during curfew hours.

In western Libya, a number of restrictions, including a 13:00-08:00 curfew, remain in force in the municipality of Sabha. All nonessential shops, schools, universities, and gyms in the city will be closed through at least March 27. Moreover, the municipal councils of Jadu and Kabaw have announced similar restrictions, though the details of the measures in those towns remain unclear.

Elsewhere in Libya, authorities will likely maintain varying levels of restrictions through at least April 1. Still, some measures have been eased in recent weeks. Land, air, and sea borders in eastern Libya - the area controlled by Libyan National Army (LNA) leader Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar - remain open. Travelers to Benghazi and other areas in eastern Libya under LNA control must provide proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours prior to travel.

Authorities in Tripoli have regularly imposed complete lockdowns of varying durations - typically four to seven days - in the capital city due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. Further similar measures could be imposed in the coming days and weeks, depending on disease activity. Authorities have also regularly ordered the closure of stores, except those that provide essential goods and services. When no lockdown is in effect, officials have periodically imposed a nightly 21:00-06:00 curfew during the week, with a 24-hour curfew on Fridays and Saturdays. Individuals and businesses that violate the edict may face fines.

Authorities have also regularly banned travel between cities in western Libya, the use of public transportation, and social gatherings. Nevertheless, select commercial flights are operating between Mitiga International Airport (MJI) and Istanbul, Turkey.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of National Accord Official Facebook Page (Arabic)