Defence & Security
Libya’s largest oil refinery engulfed in fire after drone attack
What happened
Firefighters are battling a massive blaze at Libya’s largest oil refinery, Sirte Oil Complex, after a drone strike on 11 August 2026. The attack triggered explosions and a fire that spread across storage tanks, halting operations and raising concerns over fuel supply and environmental risks in the region.
Key facts
Key facts: A drone strike on 11 August 2026 ignited fires at Sirte Oil Complex, Libya’s largest refinery.
The blaze spread to multiple storage tanks, causing large explosions and a visible smoke plume.
Firefighting teams from Sirte Oil Company and local emergency services are leading containment efforts.
Operations at the refinery have been suspended, though no official casualty figures have been released.
Authorities have not yet attributed the attack to a specific group, and investigations are ongoing.
Context
Context: Libya’s oil sector has faced recurrent instability since the 2011 revolution, with frequent disruptions to production and infrastructure. Sirte Oil Complex is Libya’s largest refinery, located near the coastal city of Sirte, and a critical hub for domestic fuel supply. Drone attacks on oil facilities have increased in frequency in Libya, often linked to local armed factions or regional conflicts. The refinery’s shutdown could exacerbate fuel shortages in a country already grappling with economic challenges and reliance on oil exports.