Libya's Zawiya refinery halts operations amid nearby fighting

Libya's largest operational oil refinery at Zawiya has been shut down after armed clashes and explosions were reported near the site.

The National Oil Corporation and Zawiya Refining Company said the halt was a precautionary measure.

Employees were evacuated from the oil complex and port, and an emergency was declared.

The National Oil Corporation said all staff were safe and that fuel supplies would continue as normal.

The company said heavy weapons fire landed in several parts of the complex, while fighting later spread to the residential area next to the refinery.

It said the situation had increased the risk of further damage to the facility.

The refinery is a major piece of energy infrastructure in western Libya, with a capacity of 120,000 barrels per day.

It is around 40km west of Tripoli and is connected to the Sharara oilfield.

Authorities in Zawiya said they had launched a large-scale operation against criminal groups, with the stated aim of targeting hideouts and wanted individuals.

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