Fire erupts at fuel tank in Libya's Zawiya oil depot

Libya's National Oil Corporation declared a state of "maximum emergency" on Monday after a massive fire engulfed gasoline tank No. 402 at the Zawiya oil depot in western Libya, causing the structure containing 4.5 million liters to collapse completely amid thick black smoke. Firefighting and safety teams from the Zawiya refinery and neighboring oil companies immediately deployed approved response plans to contain the flames while cooling adjacent tanks to prevent further spread, according to the Brega Petroleum Marketing Company.

Official Warnings

The state-owned company stated that the tank was "hit under circumstances whose causes remain unknown so far," renewing its urgent appeal to all parties to "halt hostilities and stay away from oil facilities and depots" because they contain highly flammable materials. The National Oil Corporation emphasized that "oil installations are vital facilities and belong to all Libyans, and protecting them is a national responsibility that allows no negligence," calling on relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation and prosecute those responsible.

Strategic Context

Zawiya holds significant strategic importance due to its coastal location, oil refinery and energy facilities, and has witnessed several rounds of armed clashes in recent months that left casualties and damaged vital infrastructure in the divided nation. The city lies within western Libya, which is administered by the internationally recognized Government of National Unity based in Tripoli, while a rival government appointed by the House of Representatives controls the east and most of the south amid persistent political tensions since the 2011 ouster of Muammar Gaddafi.