US calls for immediate halt of airstrikes on Tripoli’s Mitiga Airport in Libya

BY Libyan Express Aug 07, 2019 - 21:34

Mitiga Airport in Tripoli. [Photo: Internet]

The Embassy of the United States of America called on all parties in Libya to redouble their efforts to protect civilians and prevent damage to civilian infrastructure.

The US embassy urged on Wednesday for an immediate de-escalation and halt to attacks against Mitiga Airport in Tripoli, which endangered Libyan civilians seeking to perform the Hajj pilgrimage on August 3.

“The safety and security of civilian air traffic and infrastructure — which is vital to facilitate commerce and the delivery of humanitarian supplies for the benefit of all Libyans — should be respected by all sides of the current conflict.” The embassy indicated.

The US embassy also voiced its concern about ongoing violence impacting civilians in Murzuq, including air strikes on August 5 that reportedly killed and injured large numbers of civilians.

“The Embassy affirms its support for the UN call for a truce to begin on the occasion of the Eid al-Adha holiday.” It said in a statement.

The US embassy reiterated as well deep concern about ongoing instability near Tripoli and called for immediate de-escalation and a halt to the fighting, urging for a prompt return to the UN-mediated political process.

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