Libya
France’s government has decided against sending six boats to Libya’s navy, amid aid groups’ concerns that the vessels would be used to take migrants to detention centers known for widespread abuses.
Eight advocacy organizations sued the government earlier this year, saying the donation of inflatable boats would violate a European embargo on Libya and make France complicit in abuse.
A French Defense Ministry official, without elaborating, referred Monday to “the situation in Libya” in explaining the decision to not go through with the delivery. The official was not authorized to be named in discussing the decision.
Lola Schulmann of Amnesty International’s France branch said the aid groups’ legal team received notice from the Defense Ministry confirming the decision.
Europe has relied heavily on the Libyan coast guard to intercept migrants.
AP
00:50
Lebanon lifts travel ban on Muammar Gaddafi's son and reduces bail
00:03
US to end Temporary Protected Status for South Sudanese nationals
02:03
Uganda-born Zohran Mamdani to become New York City's first Muslim mayor
01:52
Italy's right-wing government unveils new work permit plan to address labor shortages
02:02
In Spain, migrants are saving sheep farms by taking over shepherding
01:00
Storm wreaks havoc in Paris suburbs, leaving trail of destruction