12 June – 18 June: NOC claims “military presence” at Ras Lanuf oil terminal

Jun 18, 2019 | Libyan actors

On 16 June, the Government of National Accord (GNA) Prime Minister, Fayez al-Serraj, announced a new peace plan initiative, under the auspices of the UN, to kick start a new political process, provided that it does not include Khalifa Haftar and his supporters. The initiative is a rehashing of the stalled UN peace plan – a national conference to be followed by parliamentary and presidential elections with the added caveat of excluding Haftar and all Libyan National Army (LNA) affiliated representatives. The UN Mission for Libya (UNSMIL) welcomed the initiative calling it “constructive” and added that it welcomes any other initiatives from Libya’s major actors, signalling that it remains open for engagement and dialogue with the LNA.

On 13 June, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) released a statement expressing its concern over “an increased military presence” at its Ras Lanuf oil terminal, claiming 80 Libyan National Army (LNA) fighters entered the port on 5 June. The NOC claimed LNA forces had appropriated a building for military use, seized accommodation used by Harouge Oil Operation staff, and were using the port to refuel warships. The NOC said the situation threatens the safety of its staff and warned it will take the required measures to ensure their safety, including the possibility of withdrawing them from the location.

On 14 June, the Ras Lanuf Oil and Gas Processing Company (RASCO) chairman issued a statement denying the NOC’s claims, stating that all operations are conducted in direct dialogue and cooperation with LNA and Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG) security units. An LNA spokesman also rebuked the NOC’s claims, denying the presence of LNA forces in the port.