In an attempt to manage the escalating controversy following a meeting between Libya’s foreign minister, Najla Mangoush, and her Israeli counterpart, Libya’s prime minister has removed her from her position. The meeting between Mangoush and Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen took place in Rome and has led to protests in several Libyan cities.
Mangoush initially characterized the meeting as informal and unplanned. However, an Israeli official contradicted this by stating that the meeting lasted two hours and received approval at the highest levels in Libya.
The meeting has sparked outrage as Libya does not officially recognize Israel. There is widespread public support across the Libyan political spectrum for the Palestinian cause and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
The controversy has further complicated Libya’s internal political situation. Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah’s interim government, in power since 2021, is facing challenges to its legitimacy, and this incident has given more ammunition to his critics.
The Libyan prime minister, Abdulhamid Dbeibah, reportedly viewed Israel as a potential bridge to the Western world and the US administration. It’s noted that Dbeibah had sought to use the meeting as a means to strengthen international support, particularly from the United States, for his interim government.
Protests against the meeting have erupted in various Libyan cities, with demonstrations outside the foreign ministry causing damage to the building. The incident highlights the sensitivities surrounding diplomatic engagements in a country with a complex political landscape and strong sentiments on international relations.
