Zawiya refinery hit by drone attack in western Libya

Sources indicate a drone targeted a refinery tank, causing damage and a leak of petroleum products. Operations and security teams quickly responded, with no casualties reported and operations reportedly remaining under control. This marks the second such incident in three days, following an attack on Saturday, August 8, where a drone hit tank 7-1, used for storing untreated naphtha, causing an explosion and fuel leak, also without fire or casualties.

These repeated incidents raise concerns about the security of Libya's oil infrastructure amid a fragile security context. The circumstances of Monday's attack, involving a "suicide drone," are still preliminary, and no group has claimed responsibility. It is also unclear if the two incidents are linked.

Located about 40 kilometers west of Tripoli, the Zawiya refinery is a strategic asset with a refining capacity of approximately 120,000 barrels per day, making it the largest operational refinery in Libya. It is crucial for fuel supply in western Libya and is connected to the Al-Sharara oil field. The refinery has faced previous security incidents, including fires in December 2024 and a temporary closure in May 2026 due to nearby clashes, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of Libya's energy infrastructure.