Libyan Officials Work to Contain Major Fire at Key Oil Facility

Emergency crews in Libya are struggling to bring

Emergency crews in Libya are struggling to bring a large fire under control at the Zawiya oil refinery, following a drone attack on Monday that marked the third such strike on the site within 48 hours.

The blaze erupted after the unmanned aerial vehicle hit a storage area at the facility, located roughly 40 kilometers west of Tripoli. Thick plumes of black smoke could be seen rising over the complex, prompting authorities to evacuate workers and deploy multiple firefighting units to the scene.

Local officials said the fire has caused significant damage to infrastructure, though they have not yet released a full assessment of the impact on production. The refinery, which plays a central role in supplying fuel to the capital and surrounding regions, has been a recurring flashpoint in the country's ongoing instability.

The latest attack follows two earlier drone strikes

The latest attack follows two earlier drone strikes over the weekend, raising concerns about a coordinated effort to disrupt Libya's energy sector. No group has claimed responsibility, but the incidents add to a pattern of violence that has plagued the North African nation since the fall of its previous government.

Energy analysts warn that prolonged disruption at Zawiya could worsen fuel shortages and heighten tensions among rival factions vying for control of lucrative oil resources. Meanwhile, international observers have called for restraint, urging all parties to avoid targeting critical civilian infrastructure.

As firefighters continue their battle against the flames, the broader implications for Libya's fragile economy remain uncertain. The government has promised a thorough investigation, but with security still precarious, the path to restoring normal operations appears fraught with challenges.