Omanghana
Libya’s eastern-based administration has barred Iranian and Afghan nationals from entering through land, sea and air ports, expanding restrictions it previously imposed on citizens of four African countries.
The decision was issued on October 28, 2026, by the government headed by Osama Hamad. It follows a June decree affecting nationals of Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia.
The eastern administration did not give a reason for adding Iran and Afghanistan or state that the decision was connected to recent remarks about Libya by US President Donald Trump.
Deportation Measures and Exemptions
The October decree directs the eastern administration’s Interior Ministry to implement the restrictions and take steps to deport Iranian and Afghan nationals who do not have valid residence permits.
The earlier decree also called for measures against nationals of the four African countries who lack valid residency documents.
Both decrees provide exemptions for accredited diplomatic and consular personnel and eligible members of their families. Workers in education, medicine and related health professions may also be exempt if they have the required approvals and employment contracts.
Libya’s Divided Administration
Although the decrees refer to Libyan territory and all ports of entry, they were issued by the eastern-based administration. Libya remains divided between rival authorities in the east and west, and the decision should not be treated as a confirmed nationwide policy.
Hamad’s administration is based in the east, while the internationally recognised Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, is based in Tripoli. United Nations efforts continue to seek agreement on a unified executive authority.
Diplomatic Protest Over Trump’s Remarks
The latest entry restrictions were announced days after Trump referred to Libya, Yemen, Haiti and Somalia as “terror-infested countries” during an October 24 campaign rally in Perry, Georgia.
On October 25, the foreign ministry of the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity summoned the US chargé d’affaires and delivered a formal protest over the remarks. The ministry requested clarification and a correction.
Trump later said the United States respected the Libyan people and supported stronger relations with Libya, while adding that the country could not remain a route for irregular migration.
Source: Omanghana
