ICC Asks Italy to Explain Almasri Release

Rome: The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday requested an explanation from Italy regarding the release of Libyan police chief Njeem Osama Almasri Habish. Almasri, who is wanted on war crimes charges by the ICC, was freed and flown back to Libya on Tuesday following an apparent technical issue with his case.

According to Ansa News Agency, the ICC issued a statement detailing that Almasri was located in Turin on January 19 and subsequently arrested. He was held in custody while awaiting the completion of procedures necessary for his surrender to the ICC. The Court highlighted its cooperation with Italian authorities by refraining from public comments on the arrest, respecting the protocols in place.

However, on January 21, Almasri was reportedly released and returned to Libya without any prior notice or consultation with the ICC. The Court is currently seeking verification from Italian authorities regarding the steps taken in this unexpected release. In the meantime, the Italian opposition is demanding an explanation from Premier Giorgia Meloni in parliament concerning the release of the alleged war criminal.