Libya Faces Widespread Shortages Amid Ongoing Conflict

The head of the United Nations humanitarian aid program, Valerie Amos, warned of dire humanitarian consequences in Libya, where widespread shortages of cash, fuel, and essential services are crippling the population. The breakdown of infrastructure has forced over 746,000 people, mostly third-country nationals, to flee the country. Amos called for a temporary ceasefire to allow international aid agencies to address the humanitarian crisis, citing reports of civilians coming under fire and the use of cluster bombs, sea and land mines, and aerial bombing.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 746,000 people, mostly third-country nationals, have fled Libya due to widespread shortages and the breakdown of infrastructure.
• Approximately 58,000 internally displaced people are living in settlements in eastern Libya.
• Civilians in Libya are still coming under fire, with reports of the use of cluster bombs, sea and land mines, and aerial bombing.
• The humanitarian aid chief, Valerie Amos, called on all sides in the fighting to agree to a temporary ceasefire in Misrata and other areas.
• The UN has raised $144 million for relief work in Libya, which is less than half of the funds needed.
• The UN humanitarian chief, Valerie Amos, indicted that additional funds will be requested in the days ahead to address the humanitarian crisis.

Statistics:

• Over 746,000 people have fled Libya.
• Approximately 58,000 internally displaced people are living in settlements in eastern Libya.
• $144 million has been raised for relief work in Libya.
• Less than half of the funds needed ($144 million out of $300 million) have been raised for relief work in Libya.
• 5,000 people are stranded at border points in Egypt, Tunisia, and Niger.

Sources:

• Voice of America (VOA) - The head of the United Nations humanitarian aid program said Monday that Libya is facing widespread shortages and she called for a pause in the fighting.