UN calls for protection for civilians in Libya

Latin Press - The UN humanitarian coordinator in Libya, Maria Ribeiro, warned belligerent groups near the capital, Tripoli, on Monday (8) about the need to protect civilians.

Ribeiro said in a statement that the recent escalation of violence in and around Tripoli has displaced more than 2.800 people fleeing the fighting, prevented emergency services from reaching victims and civilians, and damaged power lines.

The increase in violence is further exacerbating the misery of refugees and migrants arbitrarily detained in detention centers located in areas of active conflict.

The UN diplomat reminded all parties of their obligations under International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law to guarantee the safety of all civilians.

It also called for safeguarding civilian infrastructure, including schools, hospitals and public services, as well as allowing sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access to all affected areas.

The United Nations continues to call for a temporary humanitarian truce to allow for the provision of emergency services and the voluntary passage of civilians, including the wounded, in conflict zones.

The statement notes that the humanitarian community in Libya is closely monitoring events and has already activated its emergency response to assist civilians when needed.

The armed conflict began last Thursday when Marshal Khalifa Haftar ordered his forces – the Libyan National Army – to march on Tripoli, the seat of the Presidential Council, which is the government recognized by the UN.

Since then, there have been intense clashes in different areas south of the capital.

The heaviest fighting is taking place in the areas of Wadi Rabea, Sooq A o-Ahad, the road to the airport, Ain Zara and A o-Aziziya.