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Libya | Protection of civilian concerns Azizyah: Flash Update #1 (as of 7 November 2017)

Countries
Libya
Sources
OCHA
Publication date

Summary

  • Since 31 October, clashes between armed groups have been ongoing in and around the Azizyah area southwest of Tripoli, attempts to reach a lasting ceasefire have thus far been unsuccessful.

  • Casualties due to the use of indiscriminate weapons in or near civilian areas have been reported; exact figures are unknown.

  • Approximately 480 families are reported as displaced from the Azizyah area.

Situation Overview and Response

Since 31 October, clashes between armed groups in and around the Azizyah have been ongoing, with at least four to eight people killed, according to local sources. Local authorities reported 36 injured to date.

While there are no verified reports of civilian casualties, there are reports of the use of indiscriminate weapons in civilian areas. As of 7 November, temporary ceasefire attempts have failed and it is assessed that the armed conflict can escalate further.

As a result of the clashes and shelling, there has been displacement from Azizyah towards areas in the north (Al-Mamoura, Gargouza, Al-Zahra, and Al-Maya). Local authorities have registered some 480 families (3,000 individuals). Most of these families appear to be staying with host families. Other displaced are staying with relatives either in other areas of Warshafana further from fighting or Janzour, Sbi’a and Tripoli, however numbers are unknown.

The ongoing escalation of armed conflict impacts on movement on the road south from Tripoli to Gharyan.

Ghayan is an area with a significant presence of migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers. This includes the presence of a large number of migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers from Sabrata who currently are in detention in Gharyan.

The main reported needs for the IDP families are food and non-food items. The municipalities in the area reported shortages in medicine and medical supplies to deal with chronic illnesses and noted that 88 people are in need of urgent medical attention in relation to chronic illnesses (diabetes, hypertension and cardiac problems), and 23 people with disabilities need specialized care.

Humanitarian partners have provided urgent medical supplies to the area. Local organizations have provided and local networks have provided support to the displaced families. Some 520 displaced students have been integrated in schools in the areas they were displaced to.

Humanitarian actors call on all parties to:

• Uphold international humanitarian law and respect of fundamental principles of distinction, precautions and proportionality in attack.

• Ensure IDPs right to liberty of movement and freedom to choose his or her residence and safe access to essential food and potable water, basic shelter and housing, appropriate clothing, and essential medical services and sanitation.

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs: To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.