Hundreds of Libyan protesters closed the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Tripoli on Thursday afternoon. According to the Xinhua news agency, the protest was held due to concerns among some of the public about the possible "settlement" of illegal migrants in Libyan territory.

The protesters gathered in front of the UNHCR headquarters in the center of the Libyan capital and chanted slogans demanding the deportation of illegal migrants. They also rejected any measures that they believed could lead to the permanent residence of these individuals in the country. According to local media and eyewitnesses, the protesters blocked access to the office grounds.

Meanwhile, videos appeared on social media showing the crowd in front of the building and the presence of security forces in the area. Immediately after the incident, no clashes or injuries were reported.

The protest came after several days of increasing debate in Libya about illegal migration. The issue has long been a source of tension in the country, as Libya remains one of the main transit hubs for migrants trying to reach Europe via the Mediterranean Sea. They take advantage of its geographical location and extensive land and sea borders.

The protesters called for continued demonstrations and sit-ins until, according to their demands, all illegal migrants leave Libyan territory. According to available information, the UNHCR has not yet issued a statement on the incident.

The situation in Tripoli shows that the issue of migration remains an extremely sensitive political and social issue in Libya. Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi's regime, the country has been struggling with instability, divided institutions, and the pressure of migration routes from Africa to Europe. This is why the actions of international organizations, including UNHCR, are often subject to increased scrutiny by some of the public and political leaders.

gnews.cz - GH