GNA rejects entry of EU warships into Libyan territorial waters

The UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) announced that it rejects any nearing of European warships into the Libyan territorial waters to help stop human trafficking and human smuggling off the Libyan coast, saying it fears that it would hinder the ongoing efforts that target giving more support for the new government.

The GNA’s delegate to Rome, Ahmed Safar, said having European warships off the Libyan coast won’t help stabilize the country, adding that inviting foreign navy troops into the Libyan territorial waters is undoubtedly a pivotal security step that can diminish the number of immigrants crossing the Mediterranean; however, it would very unlikely help efforts aiming at uniting Libya in the time being.

Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that over 880 illegal migrants drowned in three separate incidents last week, while more than 13 thousand migrants were rescued.