Gunpoint exit for Libya’s Sanalla
A figure from the Gaddafi era has replaced the NOC’s top man. Initial consequences have been positive for output, but uncertainty and risks remain
Libya’s oil industry has been rocked by fresh turbulence after armed groups stormed the headquarters of state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC) to enforce the sacking of its chairman Mustafa Sanalla. Sanalla, in post since 2014, was fired by one of Libya’s two rival administrations, the Government of National Unity (GNU). Libya’s parliament, which is based in the east of the country and controls a rival government, has denounced his replacement as unconstitutional. Tensions between Sanalla and the GNU have been simmering for months. The GNU is internationally recognised but was installed last year as a temporary government to oversee elections in December. When those elections were cancel

Also in this section
24 July 2025
The reaction to proposed sanctions on Russian oil buyers has been muted, suggesting trader fatigue with Trump’s frequent bold and erratic threats
24 July 2025
Trump energy policies and changing consumer trends to upend oil supply and demand
24 July 2025
Despite significant crude projections over the next five years, Latin America’s largest economy could be forced to start importing unless action is taken
23 July 2025
The country’s energy minister explains in an exclusive interview how the country is taking a pragmatic and far-sighted approach to energy security and why he has great confidence in its oil sector