Stop hostilities in Libya so country can focus on fighting COVID-19: UN

Amid reports of rocket fire and civilian casualties in and around Tripoli, the United Nations is calling for a cease-fire in Libya so that the country can focus on fighting COVID-19, a UN spokesman said on Thursday.

There were reports of rockets being fired in Tripoli on Thursday, reportedly causing civilian casualties. Hostilities were also reported near the Tripoli Central Hospital, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"Our humanitarian partners say that if Libya is to have any chance against COVID-19, the ongoing conflict must come to an immediate halt. We reiterate our call once again for all parties to the conflict to do everything in their power to uphold their responsibility to protect civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law and humanitarian principles."

Despite enormous challenges, humanitarian partners continue to deliver urgent assistance to people in need, reaching more than 138,000 people so far this year, Dujarric told a virtual briefing.

While acknowledging the generosity of donors, the spokesman said a boost in funding to continue humanitarian programs is urgently required. The Libya humanitarian response plan, which requires 130 million U.S. dollars, is only 14 percent funded, he said.