Libya's Foreign Minister Suspended Following Controversial Meeting with Israeli Counterpart

Libya's Prime Minister has suspended Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush and referred her for investigation after it was revealed that she had met with Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, despite the two countries not having formal relations. The meeting, facilitated by Italy's Foreign Minister, discussed possible cooperation and Israeli aid in humanitarian issues, agriculture, and water management. Libya, which does not recognize Israel, saw small protests in response to the meeting. The Libyan Foreign Ministry stated that the encounter was an "unprepared, casual encounter" and did not involve any discussions, agreements, or consultations. The incident highlights the complexities of Libyan foreign policy, given its internal divisions and challenges to the legitimacy of the current government.