The House of Representatives' Defense Committee warns of the repercussions of the Russian gas tanker incident near the Libyan coast.

Benghazi, March 23, 2026 (LANA) – The Libyan House of Representatives' Defense and National Security Committee confirmed that it is following with grave concern the serious security and military repercussions of the incident involving the Russian liquefied natural gas tanker "Arctic Metagas," which was attacked in international waters in the Mediterranean Sea on March 3 and subsequently drifted close to the Libyan coast, specifically off the coast of Zuwara.

In a statement issued Monday, the committee said that this incident, and the subsequent drift of the abandoned tanker carrying a highly dangerous cargo, not only poses an environmental threat but also constitutes a blatant violation of Libyan national security. It raises serious questions about the protection of national sovereignty and the fight against maritime terrorism in territorial waters.

The committee stressed that protecting Libyan sovereignty over its territorial waters and airspace is a red line, considering any military or security action carried out in this area without prior coordination and approval from the competent Libyan authorities a flagrant violation of international and national laws.

The Committee strongly condemned the attack on the civilian tanker, deeming it a maritime terrorist act that threatens the safety of international navigation and sets a dangerous precedent that could affect global trade in the Mediterranean. It called for concerted international efforts to combat this phenomenon.

The Committee categorically rejected any claims that the drones targeting the tanker were launched from Libyan territory. It demanded an urgent and transparent investigation, in cooperation with relevant international bodies, to determine the true source of the attack and to present evidence that refutes these claims or reveals any security breaches.

The Committee warned that the tanker's proximity to vital Libyan oil installations, such as the Mellitah complex, poses a significant security and economic threat. It called for the utmost caution to ensure the safety of these strategic facilities.

The Committee also stressed the need to strengthen the capabilities of the Libyan Navy and Coast Guard, providing them with the necessary equipment and training to address growing security challenges, including combating maritime terrorism, piracy, and smuggling.

The committee called for the activation of all security and military emergency plans to protect the coasts and vital oil installations, secure the rescue operations area, and enhance security and intelligence coordination with friendly countries and international organizations to combat maritime terrorism and exchange information on potential threats.

It also stressed Libya's right to compensation for any security or economic damages, calling on the Libyan government appointed by the parliament to provide full support to the armed forces, especially the navy, to enable them to fulfill their duty of protecting national sovereignty and maritime security.

The Defense and National Security Committee concluded its statement by affirming that Libya will not compromise in defending its sovereignty and vital interests and will take all necessary measures to ensure its security and stability in the face of regional and international challenges.

...(LANA)...