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In the aftermath of NATO's intervention that led to the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya was expected to embark on a new democratic path. However, a decade later, the country remains fragmented, largely under the control of Khalifa Haftar, a former CIA asset. His rule exemplifies the complex and often unintended consequences of foreign military intervention.
Libya's extensive 1,100-mile coastline has become a primary launch point for migrants attempting to reach Europe. In recent months, European officials, including Italy's interior minister and Greece's migration chief, have expressed alarm over a surge in migrant arrivals. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing civil conflicts within Libya and the involvement of foreign powers like Russia, Turkey, and the UAE, which support rival factions. This geopolitical struggle extends beyond Libya, impacting regional stability and contributing to the refugee crisis.
In July 2025, senior European officials convened in eastern Libya to address the escalating migrant crisis, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions. The EU's existing agreements aimed at curbing migration flows have shown signs of failure, prompting concerns over the humanitarian implications and the potential for increased arrivals in countries like Malta.
As Libya continues to grapple with internal strife and external influences, the situation remains precarious. The lessons learned from Libya's turmoil serve as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in international interventions and their far-reaching consequences.
Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2026/mar/05/power-without-a-throne-how-khalifa-haftar-controls-libya-and-is-answerable-to-no-one