EU seeks cooperation with eastern Libyan regime to curb migration

The European Union is planning to cooperate with the regime in eastern Libya to close migration routes toward Crete. Internal documents suggest the EU intends to approach Khalifa Haftar, who governs eastern Libya with his sons and local militias. While the EU does not officially recognize Haftar’s parallel authority, plans include financing training for the eastern Libyan coast guard, providing radar equipment, and establishing a maritime rescue coordination center in Benghazi.

Experts warn that this strategy exposes the EU to blackmail, as Haftar can control migration flows to achieve political goals. Some European nations, such as Greece, have already begun bilateral training with eastern Libyan forces, including individuals identified as members of the notorious Brigade T.

Separately, the Red Crescent reported that the bodies of nine migrants were found on the coast of Tajura, near Tripoli, after their boat capsized. Local authorities believe approximately 19 people were on board, and search operations are ongoing. In a related incident, the rescue ship EMERGENCY saved 50 migrants from a wooden boat in international waters near Libya, while seven others were found dead.