Libya's eastern government bans entry of Iranians and Afghans

Libya's eastern-based government, appointed by the House of Representatives, announced on Wednesday a decision to ban citizens of Iran and Afghanistan from entering Libyan territory through all land, sea, and air border crossings.

The government, headquartered in Benghazi, said in a statement that the ban does not apply to members of diplomatic and consular missions accredited to Libya, nor to their family members who enjoy diplomatic privileges.

The decision also exempts individuals working in the education sector, as well as medical and allied health professionals, provided they have obtained official approvals and the necessary work contracts.

The eastern government did not specify the reasons for issuing the ban.