Tensions within the Mediterranean between coastguards

Since final week, Italy has expressed its anger at Libya. Fishermen accused of violating maritime area say they have been attacked with stay bullets by Libyan coastguards. Regardless of Italian anger, the Libyan ambassador to Rome believes that this incident could have no penalties for relations between the 2 international locations.

On Thursday, Might 6, Italy condemned an insufficient angle by the Libyan coast guard and requested Italian fishermen to not method an space described as “harmful”.

The Libyan Coast Guard, for its half, reacted solely on Sunday, Might 9, stating that they solely fired warning pictures. They then condemn an ​​”unlawful invasion” and a “repeated violation” of Italian fishing boats in Libyan territorial waters.

Disagreement over territorial waters

The Italian model of the details is completely different. In response to the mayor of the Mazzara Sicily, the place the boat concerned got here from, the captain suffered accidents to his hand and the cottage bears traces of bullets. The Italian boat was about thirty miles off the Libyan coast on the time of the incident. The UN Maritime Code defines every nation’s territorial waters at 12 nautical miles. Since 2005, Libyans imagine that their territorial waters lengthen to 30 miles.

In response to the Italian Minister of Protection, the navy frigates needed to intervene twice per week to defend their fishermen. The final, this Monday, Might 10, when an Italian fishing boat was chased by a number of Turkish boats off Cyprus.

► Learn additionally: Migrants: a brand new drama within the Mediterranean underlines the state’s passivity

.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More