On July 18, 2025, authorities in eastern Libya deported more than 700 Sudanese migrants by land to Sudan. This large-scale removal, confirmed by The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration, is part of a wider crackdown on irregular migration and human trafficking in the region. The operation is led by forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar, the eastern military commander who controls much of eastern Libya.
The deportation comes at a time when Sudan remains locked in violent conflict, raising serious concerns for the safety and well-being of returnees. Human rights groups and observers warn that sending people back to a war-torn country puts them at immediate risk of harm, with little access to basic services or protection.

Why Are Sudanese Migrants Being Deported from Libya?
Libya has long been a major transit point for people from Africa and the Middle East trying to reach Europe. Since the fall of the Gaddafi regime in 2011, the country has been divided between rival governments and armed groups. This instability has allowed human traffickers to operate freely, making Libya both a destination and a dangerous stopover for migrants.
The recent deportations are part of a broader campaign by the Government of National Stability, which is aligned with Khalifa Haftar and operates independently from the UN-backed government in Tripoli. According to official statements, the authorities justify these actions on several grounds:
- Public health: Some deportees reportedly have infectious diseases, including hepatitis and AIDS.
- Criminal convictions: Others have been convicted of crimes in Libya.
- Security reasons: Authorities mention “security reasons” for some deportations but have not provided details.
The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration says these measures are necessary to control migration flows, fight human trafficking, and protect public health and security.
How Are Deportations Being Carried Out?
Migrants are detained in central and southeastern Libya, areas under the control of Haftar’s forces. After screening for health issues, criminal records, or security concerns, selected individuals are transported by land to the Sudanese border. The process is supervised by Libyan authorities, and the deportations are ongoing, not a one-time event.
In addition to deportations, the campaign includes raids on trafficking hubs. Earlier in July, a raid in the town of Ajdabiya freed 104 Sudanese migrants, including women and children, who were being held captive by traffickers. The eastern Libyan coastguard also continues to intercept boats carrying migrants toward Europe. For example, 80 migrants were stopped off the coast of Tobruk in the week before the latest deportations.
Who Are the Key Players?
- Khalifa Haftar: The eastern military commander whose forces are leading the crackdown.
- Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration: The main authority responsible for detaining and deporting migrants in eastern Libya.
- Government of National Stability: The administration in eastern Libya, not recognized by the United Nations, but in control of the region where the deportations are taking place.
- Sudanese migrants: The main group affected, many of whom fled violence in Sudan and are now being sent back.
What Is the Situation for Sudanese Migrants in Libya?
The war in Sudan, which started in April 2023, has forced thousands of people to flee their homes. Many have traveled to Libya, hoping to find safety or a way to reach Europe. As of mid-2025, there are an estimated 240,000 Sudanese migrants in Libya.
For many, Libya is not a final destination but a place to wait for a chance to cross the Mediterranean Sea. However, the country’s instability, divided government, and the presence of armed groups make it a dangerous place for migrants. Many face detention, abuse, and exploitation by traffickers or local authorities.
What Risks Do Deported Migrants Face?
Sending Sudanese migrants back to Sudan raises serious humanitarian concerns. Sudan is still in the grip of violent conflict, and returnees may face:
- Violence: Ongoing fighting between armed groups puts civilians at risk.
- Lack of services: Many areas lack basic services like food, water, and medical care.
- Targeting: Returnees may be targeted by armed groups or face discrimination.
- No protection: There are few systems in place to protect people who are forced to return.
Human rights advocates warn that these deportations may violate the principle of non-refoulement. This is a rule in international law that says people should not be sent back to countries where they face serious harm.
How Do Libyan Authorities Justify the Crackdown?
Libyan officials say the campaign is necessary to:
- Fight human trafficking: Libya is a major route for traffickers moving people toward Europe.
- Maintain security: Authorities claim that some migrants pose security risks, though they have not provided details.
- Protect public health: Screening for infectious diseases is cited as a reason for some deportations.
The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration has issued statements defending the actions, but has not responded to criticism from rights groups or international agencies.
What Do Humanitarian Groups Say?
While there have been no direct statements from international organizations like the UNHCR or IOM about this specific deportation event, these groups have previously criticized similar actions. They argue that forced returns to countries in conflict put people at grave risk and may break international law.
Observers also point out that crackdowns like this often push migrants and traffickers to use more dangerous and hidden routes. This increases the risk of abuse, exploitation, and even death for those trying to escape violence or poverty.
What Are the Broader Implications?
The ongoing campaign in eastern Libya is likely to continue, with more deportations expected in the coming weeks and months. The situation in both Libya and Sudan remains unstable, meaning that migration flows and humanitarian risks are unlikely to decrease.
For Sudanese migrants, the future looks uncertain. Many have already faced violence and hardship in their journey to Libya, only to be sent back to a country still at war. The crackdown may also make it harder for humanitarian organizations to reach and help those in need.
What Can Be Done to Help?
There are several steps that could help protect migrants and address the root causes of the crisis:
- International pressure: Governments and organizations can call on Libyan authorities to halt forced returns and respect international law.
- Humanitarian aid: Increased support for migrants in Libya and returnees in Sudan can help meet basic needs and provide protection.
- Safe pathways: Creating legal and safe ways for people to seek asylum or migrate can reduce the need for dangerous journeys.
- Conflict resolution: Addressing the root causes of violence in Sudan and instability in Libya is key to reducing forced migration.
What Should Migrants and Their Families Know?
If you or someone you know is affected by these deportations, it is important to:
- Stay informed: Follow updates from official sources like the International Organization for Migration (IOM Libya) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR Libya).
- Seek help: Humanitarian organizations may be able to provide assistance or information about rights and options.
- Document your case: Keep records of your situation, including any contact with authorities or experiences of abuse.
Recent Events and Timeline
- July 18, 2025: Over 700 Sudanese migrants deported from eastern Libya to Sudan.
- Early July 2025: Raid in Ajdabiya frees 104 Sudanese migrants held by traffickers.
- Week prior: 80 migrants intercepted off the coast of Tobruk by the eastern Libyan coastguard.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Number deported: 700+ Sudanese migrants
- Date: July 18, 2025
- Authority: Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration, Eastern Libya (aligned with Khalifa Haftar)
- Method: By land, from central/southeastern Libya to Sudan
- Justification: Infectious diseases, criminal/security reasons
- Humanitarian concerns: High – returnees face violence in Sudan
- Broader campaign: Ongoing crackdown on trafficking and migration
- Estimated Sudanese in Libya: 240,000 (mid-2025)
- Recent related actions: Raids on trafficking hubs, interception of boats
- International response: No immediate new statements; prior criticism
Multiple Perspectives on the Crackdown
- Libyan authorities: Present the campaign as necessary for security and public health.
- Human rights advocates: Warn that forced returns put people in grave danger and may break international law.
- International agencies: Have previously called for Libya to stop forced returns and improve conditions for migrants and refugees.
What Does This Mean for the Region?
The situation highlights the complex challenges facing both Libya and Sudan. Libya’s divided government and ongoing conflict make it hard to protect migrants or control trafficking. Sudan’s war continues to drive people from their homes, with few safe places to go.
For Europe, the crackdown in Libya may reduce the number of migrants reaching its shores in the short term. However, it also increases the risks for those who try, as they may be forced to use even more dangerous routes.
What Are the Legal and Policy Issues?
The deportations raise important questions about international law and the rights of migrants. The principle of non-refoulement is a key part of refugee protection, and many experts believe that sending people back to Sudan at this time violates that rule.
Libyan authorities argue that they have the right to control their borders and protect their people. However, rights groups say that these actions must not put vulnerable people at risk of harm.
How Can the International Community Respond?
- Monitor the situation: Keep track of developments through official channels and news reports.
- Advocate for rights: Support calls for Libya to respect international law and protect migrants.
- Provide support: Fund and assist organizations working on the ground in Libya and Sudan.
- Work for peace: Support efforts to end conflict in Sudan and stabilize Libya.
Where Can You Find More Information?
For official updates and resources, you can visit:
- IOM Libya: Information and support for migrants in Libya.
- UNHCR Libya: Refugee protection and monitoring of forced returns.
- Libyan government press releases: For statements from the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration and other authorities.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the ongoing deportations of Sudanese migrants from Libya highlight the urgent need for coordinated international action to protect vulnerable people and address the root causes of forced migration.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The deportation of over 700 Sudanese migrants from Libya on July 18, 2025, is part of a larger campaign led by Khalifa Haftar’s forces to control migration and fight trafficking. While Libyan authorities justify these actions on security and public health grounds, the risks for returnees are high, given the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Humanitarian groups and rights advocates continue to call for an end to forced returns and for greater protection of migrants. The situation remains fluid, with more deportations likely as the crackdown continues.
If you are affected by these events, or want to support those at risk, stay informed through official sources, seek help from humanitarian organizations, and advocate for the rights and safety of migrants. For more details on migration policies and updates, you can also visit the International Organization for Migration’s official website.
The fate of Sudanese migrants in Libya remains uncertain, but international attention and action can help ensure that their rights and safety are not forgotten.
Learn Today
Deportation → Forced removal of individuals from a country back to their homeland or another country.
Non-refoulement → A principle preventing returning people to places where they face serious harm or persecution.
Khalifa Haftar → Eastern Libyan military commander controlling migration enforcement and anti-trafficking operations.
Human trafficking → Illegal trade of people for forced labor or exploitation, often linked to migration routes.
Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration → Libyan authority responsible for detaining and deporting migrants in eastern Libya.
This Article in a Nutshell
Libya deported over 700 Sudanese migrants on July 18, 2025, amid a crackdown led by Khalifa Haftar. The returning migrants face grave risks due to Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Authorities justify deportations citing health and security, while human rights groups warn of violations and humanitarian concerns.
— By VisaVerge.com