Deserting Libya: the rhetoric of British Foreign Policy
If you care to read the British Government’s official advice to potential or actual visitors to Libya, which as at 26th September, 2015 is “Still Current”; you will find the following bleak message:
“Latest update: Summary – intense fighting continues in Benghazi, Sirte, Darnah and parts of southern Libya; the situation
remains dangerous throughout the country”.
More specifically the grim picture painted by the Foreign Office continues as follows:
“The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all
travel to Libya due to the ongoing fighting, threat of terrorist
attacks and kidnap against foreigners (including from ISIL-affiliated
extremists), and a dangerous security situation throughout the country.
British nationals still in Libya are strongly urged to leave
immediately by commercial means. The British Embassy in Tripoli has
temporarily closed, and is unable to provide consular assistance.
There is a high threat from terrorism. There have been a number of
attacks and threats against westerners, western interests and symbolic
targets throughout Libya. ISIL-affiliated groups have stated an
intention to target foreigners. There is clear evidence that groups
within Libya have both the intent and capability to carry out
kidnappings and are specifically targeting foreign nationals”.
