Libya's National Oil Corporation has issued a warning that the closure of gates at the Zawiya Oil Complex poses a significant threat to refinery operations and fuel supplies. The corporation's board may declare force majeure within hours if the situation is not resolved. Members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard blocked the gates of the Zawiya Oil Refinery Company and the Brega Oil Marketing Company on Tuesday morning, preventing employees and technicians from entering and disrupting nighttime shift changes.
The blockade has resulted in significant disruptions, with students at the Zawiya Oil Institute for Qualification and Training unable to attend classes. Although the Brega gate was partially reopened, the main refinery gate remained closed. The corporation emphasized that partial access is insufficient for full and safe operations under industry safety regulations. The closure coincides with the continued shutdown of valve number 7 in the Hamada area, which has halted the flow of Sharara crude from Akakus Oil Operations to Zawiya port.
The daily production loss due to the shutdown is approximately 130,000 barrels, which could increase if the shutdown persists. The corporation warned that the closure exposes the complex to technical, operational, and security risks, violating safety standards and potentially causing severe damage to equipment. This could halt refining and disrupt oil supplies, with far-reaching consequences for the country's energy sector.
The National Oil Corporation stressed that continued disruption will paralyze operations, directly affect fuel supplies and national revenue, and complicate the import and distribution of oil derivatives. This will increase costs and worsen daily hardship for citizens. The corporation called on those responsible for the closures to act rationally and put national interests first.
The corporation urged state authorities to protect oil facilities, ensure staff safety, and keep energy infrastructure out of factional disputes. The corporation reaffirmed that oil and its infrastructure belong to all Libyans and that uninterrupted operations are vital to national resources and security. The board is prepared to declare force majeure soon if the valve remains closed.
Declaring force majeure would be a measure to protect institutional assets, partners, and contractual obligations, and to avoid costly penalties for the Libyan state. The corporation's warning highlights the critical importance of maintaining stability and security at oil facilities to ensure the continued flow of energy resources.
The situation remains tense, with the National Oil Corporation appealing for a swift resolution to the crisis. The corporation's statement underscores the need for a coordinated effort to safeguard Libya's energy infrastructure and prevent further disruptions to the country's oil production and refining capabilities.
Key points
- The closure of the Zawiya Oil Complex gates threatens refinery operations and fuel supplies in Libya.
- The daily production loss due to the shutdown is approximately 130,000 barrels.
- The National Oil Corporation may declare force majeure if the situation is not resolved.
