Libya: After Russia, Haftar Forces Whisked to Italy for Treatment

Italy Thursday flew out of Benghazi injured Libyan forces aligned with Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar known as Russia’s man in the Libyan crisis.

Twenty-two fighters of the Marshall were carried in C130-J hospital plane from Benina airport to the Celio Military hospital in Rome, Libya Herald reports.

Haftar froces have been fighting Jihadists in and around the second Libyan city. Italy has officially aligned itself with the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) and its leadership establishment; the Presidency Council (PC) led by Faiez Serraj.

Rome formerly provided medical assistance to GNA forces, which fought Jihadists in the city of Sirte. Italian Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano noted that “the Benghazi operation was part of a larger effort by Italy to provide humanitarian assistance for Libyan forces fighting against terrorism.”

“Our action does not stop here” he added.

“We will continue to provide assistance with the provision of emergency medical kits to hospitals across the country.”

Italy, former colonial power of Libya, was the first foreign country to re-open its embassy after two years of closure. It is also engaged in combatting illegal migration business taking place in the North African country.

Russia has also been receiving injured Haftar forces for medical treatment. Around 70 forces of the east-based army were flown early last month to Russia for treatment. Moscow has pledged to receive additional 500 injured fighters.