Italy Releases Libyan Official Wanted for War Crimes by ICC
Osama Najim, accused of crimes against humanity, was detained briefly in Turin but returned to Libya due to procedural issues, raising questions about Italy's motives.
- Osama Najim, also known as Almasri, is wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to his role in Libyan prisons.
- Najim was arrested in Turin on January 19, 2025, following an ICC-issued warrant, but released two days later due to procedural irregularities cited by Italian authorities.
- Italian officials claim the arrest was invalid as it lacked prior approval from the Justice Ministry, though legal experts have questioned this justification.
- Najim's release coincided with Italy's deepening political and economic ties with Libya, including a €9 billion trade relationship and collaboration on migration control.
- The decision has sparked criticism, with observers suggesting it undermines international justice and prioritizes Italy's domestic and foreign policy interests over accountability.
L'Humanité 
Courrier International 
Libération 
