Shubhiksha GV, Pune
Libya’s Prime Minister has taken decisive action by suspending Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush on August 27 and initiating an investigation into her recent meeting with Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen. The encounter, which occurred despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations, ignited a diplomatic and domestic uproar.
Israel’s announcement of the meeting, during which discussions about potential cooperation reportedly occurred, led to modest protests within Libya. It is worth noting that Libya does not recognize Israel, and the interaction has stirred controversy within the nation.
In response to the unfolding events, Libya’s Foreign Ministry clarified that Mangoush had declined a planned meeting with Israeli representatives. Instead, what transpired was characterized as an “unprepared, casual encounter” during a meeting at Italy’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. The Libyan ministry firmly stated that no substantial discussions, agreements, or consultations occurred, reiterating its staunch rejection of normalizing ties with Israel, according to Reuters.
Israel’s Cohen expressed his perspective on the situation, mentioning, “I spoke with the foreign minister about the great potential for the two countries from their relations.” According to Israel’s foreign ministry, Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, facilitated the meeting. During the encounter, the officials discussed potential collaboration across humanitarian concerns, agriculture, and water management. Cohen also highlighted his discussion with Mangoush regarding preserving Jewish heritage in Libya.
Libya’s foreign policy landscape is notably intricate, shaped by years of internal conflict and deep-seated divisions over governance. The Government of National Unity (GNU) installation in early 2021, facilitated by a U.N.-backed peace process, aimed to establish a more cohesive administration. However, this unity’s legitimacy has faced challenges since 2022, particularly from the eastern-based parliament, following an unsuccessful attempt at conducting elections.
The GNU’s prior foreign policy moves, including agreements with Turkey, have encountered resistance from the parliament and legal disputes. The ongoing situation prompted the Presidency Council, functioning as the head of state, to seek clarity from Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah on the circumstances surrounding the meeting.
The High State Council, playing an advisory role in Libyan politics, expressed “surprise” at the news of the meeting. It underscored the need for accountability for those responsible for the diplomatic event. As Libya navigates its complex political landscape, reactions to diplomatic engagements like these reflect the nation’s evolving internal dynamics and external relationships.