Italy in Turmoil Over Release of Libyan War Crimes Suspect General Osama Al-Masri; PM Meloni Under Scrutiny

Italy in Turmoil Over Release of Libyan War Crimes Suspect General Osama Al-Masri; PM Meloni Under Scrutiny

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is facing intense scrutiny over the release of General Osama Al-Masri Nazim, a Libyan war crimes suspect. Nazim had been arrested under the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation on charges of murder, rape, sexual violence, and torture. He previously served as the head of the Mitiga Detention Center in Tripoli, Libya.

Following his release, opposition parties in Italy have demanded an explanation regarding the decision to free Nazim and his repatriation to Libya.

After being arrested in Turin, Italy, on January 20, Nazim was released on January 23 due to a "procedural flaw." A Rome appeals court ruled in favor of his release, and Italy facilitated his return to Libya via a private jet.

The ICC expressed deep concern over the release, stating that no consultation or prior approval was sought from the court. Italy, as a member of the ICC, is obligated to fully cooperate with the court.

Italy has an agreement with Libya to curb refugee flows, under which Libyan coast guards have been trained, and thousands of refugees have been intercepted before reaching Europe. However, human rights activists have criticized this agreement, alleging it has led to increased inhumane treatment and abuse of refugees.

Opposition leader Elly Schlein remarked, "While Meloni has declared war on human traffickers, a Libyan trafficker was arrested but instead of being punished as per the court’s request, he was sent beyond the reach of justice."

Some opposition MPs have described the incident as "incredible" and "negligent."

This event has heightened pressure on Prime Minister Meloni and Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, with opposition parties demanding a full explanation of the situation.