Libya - Q&A from the press briefing (29 May 2020)

Q: Why did a French navy frigate stop a tanker that was on its way to load refined petroleum products from a port in eastern Libya?

A: The French frigate that intervened to stop the tanker was deployed as part of the EU operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI. In accordance with the conclusions of the Berlin conference, this operation, launched on April 1, helps enforce the embargo on weapons and illegal oil exports imposed by the UN Security Council. Thanks to France, in particular, this operation has naval, air and satellite assets to oversee oil flows regardless of their origin and beneficiaries.

This situation underscores the importance of the operation at a time when foreign interference in the Libyan conflict is on the rise, despite commitments made in Berlin.

Operation IRINI reflects strong French and EU efforts to resolve a conflict that has consequences for the security interests and sovereignty of European countries. France also stresses the need for a ceasefire and the revival of an inclusive political process under the auspices of the UN.

For operational details, we refer you to the Ministry for the Armed Forces.