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UN-backed Libya government condemns Haftar’s siege of Derna  

August 7, 2017 at 6:26 pm

The Presidential Council of the Libyan Government of National Accord condemned the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the city of Derna, east of the country, as a result of the siege that was imposed by the forces that are backed by Khalifa Haftar.

In a statement issued today, the council said the siege resulted in a shortage of medicines, medical equipment and supplies, in addition to foodstuffs. This has deeply affected the living conditions of the city’s inhabitants and deteriorated the humanitarian situation there.

It went on to call for safe passages for humanitarian convoys and for the siege on Derna to be lifted.

Read: Derna suffers as military forces tighten siege

All parties should “be aware of the need to lift the siege on the city and coordinate with dignitaries and wise people in order to put an end to this cruel suffering, resort to reason and reconciliation, and not include the citizens’ needs and services in the confrontations and fights.”

The Libyan Government of National Accord has also expressed its “readiness” to provide the support and help needed.

The government warned against the impact of the siege on the cohesion of social relations between residents in Derna and the residents of neighbouring areas.

“We must all avoid any negative impact on our cohesive social relations and ensure that they are kept away from any conflict.”

Since a popular revolt overthrew Colonel Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been politically divided.

Currently, three conflicting governments are fighting for power and legitimacy in Libya.