Oxy began operations in Libya in 1965, and in 1967 made its first of several giant discoveries. Oxy was the first American company to resume oil operations in Libya after U.S. sanctions were lifted in 2004. In early 2011, Oxy ceased exploration activities and production operations in Libya due to civil unrest in the country and U.S. sanctions. Production operations have now resumed and U.S. sanctions have been lifted.