Arguably timely, notice of an item from August, 2025: "Libya’s oil and gas industry is making a resurgence after years of instability and underinvestment, attracting the interest of major players in the global energy market. In an attempt to resurrect long-dormant projects, Shell, BP, and ExxonMobil are spearheading a new wave of engagement in the North African nation, relying on its enormous reserves and a period of political calm.".

Link. A part, beyond the headline quoting -

Majors return with studies, not rigs — for now

ExxonMobil’s re-entry into Libya came in August 2025 through a memorandum of understanding with the NOC, covering seismic studies across four offshore blocks. The agreement marks the U.S. oil giant’s return after more than ten years of absence, signaling confidence in Libya’s improving security and regulatory environment.

In July, the NOC and British energy company bp signed a similar agreement to investigate redevelopment possibilities in the sizable Sarir and Messla fields. Despite being some of Libya’s largest onshore locations, years of neglect have prevented them from reaching their full potential. The MoU also makes it possible to evaluate unconventional gas and oil resources, which is something Libya has never done before.

Shell has returned to the game as well. Last month, the Anglo-Dutch company signed a memorandum of understanding to assess the Al-Atshan field, a potentially profitable but geologically complex asset. Before committing to any full-scale development, Shell will prioritize technical and financial viability.

When taken as a whole, these agreements are early-stage signals that prioritize analysis and viability over immediate drilling. However, if the results are encouraging, they may open the door to billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements and capital investment over the following two years.

Business Insider,  yesterday - 

International oil companies have gradually increased engagement in Libya, attracted by its vast reserves and improved operating environment.

However, analysts warn the recovery remains fragile. Libya’s oil output has historically been vulnerable to political disputes, militia blockades, and sudden shutdowns linked to rival power centres.

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Sustaining higher production levels, observers say, will require stronger governance, clearer revenue management, and durable security arrangements around critical energy infrastructure.

Authorities are targeting further increases, with ambitions to push output beyond 1.5 million barrels per day in the coming years, contingent on political stability and continued investment.

 Benghazi hearings are long past, and the "Arab Spring" a faded term; but it looks as if those people got their minds right. In our hemisphere, Epstein is still news, MTG pressing it to ongoing attention, Trump saying look elsewhere, as is his pattern.

And climate still is a concern, just not Big Oil's worry, as oil in the ground requires capital to get to market, and . . .

In our hemisphere, Mission Accomplished? Donroe Doctrine? All as Epstein remains a focus of moral outrage, among Trump critics. Aside from that, local news exists also:

https://www.startribune.com/minnesotas-northstar-rail-line-which-never-met-its-potential-or-expectations-winds-down-service/601552483

 That was Star Trubune's featured story, yesterday, today, things move -

https://www.startribune.com/ 

All news is local? Seems so, for some. However, there is this -

 https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/05/oil-price-dips-venezuela