Kathmandu— A massive fire erupted at Libya’s Zawiya refinery Monday evening following a drone attack, prompting the country’s national oil company to warn it may declare force majeure and suspend operations if further attacks occur. The refinery, located 40km west of Tripoli and capable of processing 120,000 barrels per day, was directly targeted with a drone strike that ignited a tank containing approximately 4.5 million liters of gasoline. While initial reports indicate no serious injuries, the incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the North African nation.

Refinery Under Attack

Footage verified by Al Jazeera showed large flames and thick black smoke rising from the facility after the attack on tank number 402-T, belonging to the Brega Oil Company. Prior to Monday’s incident, the refinery had already been targeted by drones on Sunday – a water desalination plant was struck – and Saturday, when a naphtha reservoir was hit. The National Oil Corporation (NOC) declared a “maximum emergency” in the region and called for an investigation into the attacks.

Escalating Threats to Operations

Hours after the initial attack, another drone targeted an oil blending and filling plant operated by the Zawiya Oil Refining Company. Although this latest drone fell near a main oil tank and pipeline network without causing damage or casualties, it further heightened concerns about the refinery’s vulnerability. The NOC explicitly stated that continued attacks would force them to declare a state of force majeure and suspend operations at the facility.

Political Response and Security Concerns

The Tripoli-based government, led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, held an emergency meeting with key officials to address the security developments. Dbeibah emphasized the need for a firm response to any threats against vital infrastructure. A Libyan parliamentary panel also condemned the attack and called for increased protection of oil installations, stating that the Zawiya Refinery is “a cornerstone of the national economy.” The attacks highlight Libya’s continuing instability since the 2011 uprising that ousted Muammar Gaddafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power despite a 2020 ceasefire.

The Brega Oil Company has appealed to all parties to cease fighting and protect oil facilities, which it considers vital national infrastructure. The situation remains fluid as authorities investigate the attacks and assess the potential impact on Libya’s oil production.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.