Libya: The Trail of Tears.

Six years ago Britain, America and France, aided by NATO

An act of Humanity.

planes and bombs "liberated" Libya. In Tony Blair's words, it was "an act of humanity". 

Here is the British government's current assessment. Note the final paragraph regarding travel insurance. Can we afford the premiums?

There is reference to the Government of National Accord (GNA), officially recognised by the United Nations,  pressurised as it is by the USA, Britain and France.  In reality it is not a government, more of a parish council controlling a small corner of the city of Tripoli. 

Across the entire country hundreds of warring militant groups, and in Benghazi and the East, the forces of self-proclaimed strong man - a second Gaddafi, perhaps? - General Haftar. 

Millions of refugees flooding north to Europe. No government, no political structures, no financial structures, no future, no hope. Just Western organisations quietly filleting the nation's oil reserves. 

2011. A nation destroyed. 

Britain and Europe are currently troubled by the word "terrorism", and "why do they hate us and our values?" Is the answer staring us in the face, but we cannot, will not, see? 


An extract from current government advice:

"The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) continues to advise against all travel to Libya, and for British nationals still in Libya to leave immediately by commercial means. Although the Government of National Accord (GNA) is working to restore stability and security to Libya, intense fighting continues in a number of areas and local security situations can quickly deteriorate.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Libya. There remains a

Millions of refugees leaving Libyan shores.

high threat throughout the country of terrorist attacks and kidnap against foreigners, including from Daesh-affiliated extremists (formerly referred to as ISIL) and Al Qaeda, as well as armed militias. Since 2015, Daesh have attacked a number of oil and gas installations and killed or kidnapped workers, including foreign nationals. 

The British Embassy in Tripoli remains temporarily closed, and is unable to provide consular assistance.

Fighting has caused the temporary suspension or closure of airports, closed roads and led to the closure of some border crossings. All airports are vulnerable to attack. Tripoli International Airport has been closed since 13 July 2014. Limited commercial departure options are sometimes available, but you should check with your airline. On 23 December 2016, an internal Afriqah Airways A320 flight from Sabha to Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli was hijacked and diverted to Malta. All passengers and crew were released and the motives of the hijackers were political.

If you choose to travel to Libya against FCO advice, you should consider your security arrangements carefully and take all necessary security precautions, including contingency plans. If you’re entering Libya as a media representative, you should get press accreditation from the relevant Libyan authorities.

You must get permission before taking any photographs or interviewing at or near military facilities. If you choose to travel to Libya against FCO advice, you should get the right visa, or risk deportation. 

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. 

If you choose to travel to Libya against FCO advice, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel."