The Defense and National Security Committee of the Libyan House of Representatives issued on March 23 a warning over the repercussions of the attack on the Russian liquefied natural gas tanker, Arctic Meta Gas, which occurred earlier this month in international waters of the Mediterranean.
The Committee highlighted the drifting tanker near Libyan shores as a serious environmental and security concern.
The statement described the attack as an act of “maritime terrorism,” emphasising that any military or security operations in Libya’s territorial waters without prior approval violate national sovereignty and international law. The committee stressed that safeguarding the country’s territorial waters and airspace is a “red line” for national security.
Libyan authorities firmly rejected claims that drones used in the attack were launched from Libyan territory, calling for a transparent international investigation to identify those responsible. The committee urged accountability and the presentation of clear evidence to prevent misinformation and security breaches.
The proximity of the damaged tanker to key Libyan oil facilities, particularly the Mellitah complex, was highlighted as a major economic and security risk. Authorities urged maximum vigilance, activation of emergency security plans, and careful coordination of rescue operations to mitigate potential threats to the coastline.
Updates from the Municipality of Zuwara reported that the tanker is currently drifting northwest, approximately 65 kilometres from the coast, under continuous monitoring. Coordination with the operations room remains active to ensure public safety and prevent environmental or security incidents as the situation develops.
