The Libyan and regional stance on the Military Bases Agreement during the second government of Mahmoud Al-Muntasir, January 1964 - March 1965

Abstract

During al-Muntasir's second term (1964-1965), Libya adopted a balanced stance on the issue of foreign military bases. While facing increasing popular and Arab pressure demanding the withdrawal of British and American forces, the government opted for a gradual approach and negotiation rather than direct confrontation. It declared the presence of the bases temporary and stated that Libya would not renew the agreements upon their expiration. Diplomatic contacts were initiated to reduce foreign military activity while simultaneously working to build the capabilities of the Libyan army in preparation for eventually dispensing with them. Although al-Muntasir did not achieve a complete withdrawal during his term, his government paved the way politically for the assertion of national sovereignty in subsequent years. From the foregoing, it is clear that al-Muntasir's negotiations with America and Britain regarding military bases did indeed begin in 1964, but they were halted at the beginning of 1965 due to external pressures, al-Muntasir's unwavering loyalty to King Idris, and King Idris's astute understanding of the situation. The King was wary of Nasserist influence within Libya and believed that the Western presence served as a balancing factor, preventing the infiltration of nationalist movements into Libyan institutions. Political events and external pressures had led to this turn of events, and al-Muntasir's government had to find solutions. This was something neither the King nor al-Muntasir could achieve. It is to al-Muntasir's credit that he sacrificed his own interests for the sake of his country during those difficult circumstances and did not abandon the King.