Trump's Remarks on Libya Spark Diplomatic Row

US President Donald Trump's recent remarks about Libya have ignited a diplomatic row, with Libyan officials summoning the US chargé d'affaires and issuing strong statements of protest. The controversy began during a rally in Perry, Georgia, on Saturday, where Trump criticized Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff for sponsoring a bill that allowed large numbers of immigrants to enter the US from countries he described as 'infested with terrorism'.

In his speech, Trump referred to Libya, along with Yemen, Haiti, and Somalia, as 'shithole countries'. These remarks drew immediate anger from Libyan officials. The internationally recognized government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Inga Hiemink, the US chargé d'affaires, on Sunday to deliver an official diplomatic protest note. The note demanded clarification of Washington's position and a correction of Trump's remarks, emphasizing Libya's sovereignty and its refusal to be drawn into foreign electoral disputes.

The Tripoli-based High Council of State also issued a statement declaring, 'Libya will not be humiliated, and history does not bend for the arrogant.' The remarks also drew criticism from Khalifa Haftar, the deputy commander of the self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) based in the country's east. Haftar stated that electoral debates could not justify insulting nations or undermining the dignity of their people.

In response to the backlash, Trump issued a statement on his Truth Social platform on Sunday evening, praising the Libyan people and urging the country to address 'illegal migration'. 'The Libyan people are proud, resilient, hospitable, and deserving of peace and prosperity,' Trump wrote. 'The United States and Libya share a strong and enduring partnership in combating terrorism, building on our historic success in defeating ISIS in Libya together.' He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by brave Libyans in fighting ISIS, but emphasized that Libya must not remain a corridor for illegal migration.

This is not the first time Trump has made controversial remarks about Libya. In 2017, he referred to the country as a 'terror-infested' nation during a speech in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The current controversy highlights the delicate nature of US-Libya relations and the sensitivity surrounding discussions about the country's security and sovereignty.