A number of protesters have shut down the Mellitah oil and gas complex in western Libya, in a new escalation of protests linked to the deterioration of electricity services and the ongoing load-shedding crisis that has weighed heavily on citizens in recent times.
According to local sources, protesters from the towns of Al-Jamil, Zliten, Riqdaleen, Zuwara, and Al-Ajilat closed the complex and prevented workers from entering, as part of a protest movement previously announced to demand the resolution of deteriorating public services.
The closure of the Mellitah complex, one of Libya’s most prominent energy facilities, follows the protesters’ announcement of a sit-in to protest the continued power outages lasting for long hours, and the resulting daily suffering for residents, especially with rising temperatures and increased reliance on electricity.
No official details have yet been released regarding the impact of the closure on the complex’s operations or production, as protesters’ demands continue for improved electricity services and urgent solutions to the crisis of recurring outages.
Mellitah
Mellitah (Melita) is an ancient city located on the island of Malta, which was an important Phoenician and then Roman settlement. Today, it is known as the city of Mdina, which retains its historical walls and narrow medieval streets. The site contains remains from the Roman period, such as temples and baths, making it a prominent tourist and cultural destination.
Libya
Libya is a country in North Africa with a rich history that includes Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman periods. Its territory contains world-renowned archaeological sites such as Leptis Magna and Cyrene, which reflect its importance in antiquity. In the modern era, Libya was an Italian colony and experienced a period of instability after the fall of the Gaddafi regime in 2011.
Al-Jamil
Al-Jamil (Byblos) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located on the Lebanese coast. Its history dates back over 7,000 years, serving as an important trading center for the Phoenicians, who developed the Phoenician alphabet there. Today, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and contains Roman and Crusader ruins alongside its picturesque old souk.
Zliten
Zliten is a historic town located on the coast of Libya, known for its beautiful beaches and archaeological sites. The region has been inhabited since antiquity, with Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman influences, and today it preserves vestiges of these civilizations. Over the centuries, Zliten was an important agricultural and commercial center, affected by modern conflicts but remaining a symbol of Libyan heritage.
Riqdaleen
Riqdaleen is a historic region located in Tunisia, famous for its stunning landscapes and cultural significance. Its history dates back to ancient times when it was part of important trade routes, and it contains architectural remains reflecting the influence of various civilizations that passed through it. Today, it is a tourist destination attracting visitors to explore its rich heritage and natural beauty.
Zuwara
Zuwara is a coastal city in northwestern Libya, located near the border with Tunisia. Known for its beaches and the Zenati-speaking Berber community, the town has a rich history as an important center of Amazigh culture. Over time, Zuwara was a strategic point for trade and fishing, and in the modern period, it played a significant role during the Libyan conflicts.
Al-Ajilat
Al-Ajilat is a Libyan city located in the Jafara Plain region. Historically, it was known as a center for Arab tribes, particularly the Oulad Suleiman tribe. The city played an important role during the Italian colonial period, witnessing fierce resistance from the local population. Today, Al-Ajilat is known for its diverse agricultural production and its strategic location on the Libyan coastal road.
