UN, partners appeal for 10.7 mln USD to respond to humanitarian needs in Libya

The UN Mission in Libya and its humanitarian partners on Monday called on the international community to urgently provide 10.7 million U.S. dollars for lifesaving emergency assistance for 79,400 people in Sirte, a coastal city in the North African country, a UN spokesman told reporters here.

Recent military operations against Da'esh, also known as the Islamic State, have triggered new displacements and return movements, resulting in a critical humanitarian situation, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. "People who fled the area report severe shortages of food and medicines, looting and confiscations by Da'esh elements, as well as serious rights violations, including public beheadings."

The humanitarian community expects return movements to accelerate once the forces of the Government of National Accord make progress, he said.

Humanitarian partners anticipate that by the end of the year, some 79,400 people will be residing in Sirte municipality, although much of the city will likely remain inaccessible for months, he said.

The United Nations and its partners are tailoring their response to meet the needs of the population in Sirte, he said. "These include psychosocial support, mine action, health and food aid. The appeal covers the needs for four months, from September to December 2016." Enditem