UN envoy to Libya says Libyans cannot face floods crisis alone

By Abdelsalam Fayez

TRIPOLI, Libya (AA) – The UN envoy to Libya on Friday said the country cannot address the crisis of the floods and its repercussions alone.

In a statement, Abdoulaye Bathily said the scale of damage and losses from the floods that badly hit Libya's eastern region last weekend "is beyond our collective imagination."

The UN envoy hailed the Libyan people’s collective efforts in responding to the crisis despite their severe political divisions.

“The Libyan people have set a great example of unity, compassion, and resilience in the face of this devastating tragedy,” Bathily said.

Libya has for years faced a crisis over a power struggle, as the country is divided between two governments; one is internationally recognized in the western part of the country, and the other is appointed by the Libyan parliament and rules the eastern region.

He also voiced gratitude to the countries that have "sent rescue teams, equipment, and life-saving supplies to help Libya in this difficult time."

At least 6,000 people were killed and thousands of others remain missing due to the weekend floods in eastern Libya, according to the latest official numbers.

Torrential rains from Storm Daniel swept several areas on Sunday in eastern Libya, most notably Benghazi, Al-Bayda, and Al-Marj, as well as Soussa and Derna.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar