On Sunday the ‘Libyan National Army’ (LNA) took over at least two key oil ports from a rival force that supports the U.N.-backed government, Reuters reports. The LNA is loyal to Khalifa Haftar – one of Libya’s most experienced generals – who opposes the Internationally recognised government.

The incident raises the prospect of an escalation in the on going conflict over Libyan oil, which could have international ramifications.

According to a spokesman for the LNA, the military operation took over the ports of Es Sider, Ras Lanuf, Brega and Zueitina.

The on-going civil war has had a severe impact on Libyan oil production causing a decline from about 1.6 million barrels per day (bpd) it under the Gaddafi regime in 2011, to 200,000 bpd today. 200,000 barrels per day (bpd) from the 1.6 million bpd it was producing before an uprising toppled Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Source: www.middleeastmonitor.com