Tripoli – Libya’s National Oil Corporation warned that the closure of gates at the Zawiya Oil Complex threatens refinery operations and fuel supplies. The corporation said its board may declare force majeure within hours unless a closed valve on the Sharara crude pipeline is reopened.
According to the statement, members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard blocked the gates of the Zawiya Oil Refinery Company and the Brega Oil Marketing Company on Tuesday morning. This prevented employees and technicians from entering and disrupted nighttime shift changes needed for operations. Students at the Zawiya Oil Institute for Qualification and Training were also unable to attend classes. Later, the Brega gate was partially reopened, but the main refinery gate remained closed at the time of the statement.
The corporation stressed that partial access is not enough for full and safe operations under industry safety regulations.
The corporation said these developments coincide with the continued closure of valve number 7 in the Hamada area by members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard in the southwest and an armed group. This has halted the flow of Sharara crude from Akakus Oil Operations to Zawiya port. The daily production loss is about 130,000 barrels, and this could rise if the shutdown continues.
The corporation warned that the closure exposes the complex to technical, operational, and security risks, violating safety standards and potentially causing severe damage to equipment. It threatens to halt refining and disrupt oil supplies.
The corporation said continued disruption will paralyze operations, directly affect fuel supplies and national revenue, and complicate the import and distribution of oil derivatives. This will increase costs and worsen daily hardship for citizens.
The corporation called on those responsible for the closures to act rationally, put national interests first, immediately reopen all gates, and allow operational teams to perform their duties. It also urged state authorities to protect oil facilities, ensure staff safety, and keep energy infrastructure out of factional disputes.
The corporation reaffirmed that oil and its infrastructure belong to all Libyans. It said uninterrupted operations are vital to national resources and security. The board is prepared to declare force majeure soon if the valve remains closed, to protect institutional assets, partners, and contractual obligations, and to avoid costly penalties for the Libyan state.