Turkey has executed a meticulously planned evacuation of 82 citizens from Libya, responding to escalating violence that has rendered the country increasingly dangerous for civilians. The operation, completed, highlights Turkey’s proactive approach to safeguarding its nationals amid Libya’s worsening political and security crisis.
The evacuation was triggered by intensified clashes in Tripoli and surrounding areas, driven by disputes between rival factions vying for control of Libya’s oil wealth and political institutions. Turkish military aircraft, supported by naval assets, airlifted diplomats, engineers, and their families from a secure airbase in western Libya to Istanbul. The operation, coordinated by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, navigated active combat zones and required precise timing to avoid militia checkpoints. Evacuees described harrowing conditions in Tripoli, including frequent power outages, skyrocketing food prices, and constant gunfire, which forced many to remain indoors for weeks.
Libya’s instability, rooted in the 2011 overthrow of Moammar Gadhafi, has worsened in 2025, with rival governments in Tripoli and Benghazi fueling a cycle of violence. Turkey, a key supporter of the Tripoli-based government, maintains significant economic interests in Libya, including construction and energy projects.
The evacuation underscores the challenges of operating in such an environment, with Turkish officials calling for international mediation to restore stability. The evacuees, now safe in Turkey, have expressed gratitude but voiced concerns for Libyan colleagues left behind. The operation has drawn praise for its efficiency, but it also highlights the broader plight of civilians trapped in Libya, where humanitarian access remains limited and foreign nationals face growing risks.