A vessel carrying around 65 passengers capsized near Libya’s Marsa Dela port. Pakistan’s embassy in Tripoli is seeking details of possible Pakistani affectees and assisting local authorities. The Foreign Office has activated its Crisis Management Unit to monitor the situation.

Pakistan investigates Libya boat tragedy as embassy steps in

September 10th will mark the first anniversary of floods in Libya that killed thousands and displaced many more. According to a report issued in November by the UN, there were 4,352 confirmed deaths with 8,000 people still missing. Watch to know more.

Libya's deadly floods: Swathes of Derna was obliterated

A 22-year-old Sudanese woman, who fled to Libya as a refugee from the war in her country, has defied the pre-conceptions and customs of a conservative society, with the unfailing support and encouragement of her brother and the garage owner. She is a thriving mechanic who now narrates her story of perserverance.

Sudanese woman refugee works as a mechanic in Libya

Libya's central bank has suspended all operations after its head of information technology was kidnapped in Tripoli. Musab Msallem was abducted from his home by an unidentified group. The bank has linked the incident to a previous siege on its headquarters and threats made to other executives.

Libya’s central bank shuts down operations

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli,&nbsp;Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU)&nbsp;announced in a statement. The development marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The first Indian diplomat has reached the country after a gap of several years. Dr&nbsp;Mohd. Aleem has been appointed as the Charge d'Affaires (CdA) at the reopened Indian Embassy in Tripoli. Previously, Dr Aleem served as the Under Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) West Asia &amp; North Africa Division (WANA).

According to a statement from the GNU, the embassy's reopening is viewed as an "important step" for the ties between the two countries. The&nbsp;embassy was "reopened" following a&nbsp;ceremony on Monday (Jul 21), attended by the Libyan side as well.&nbsp;

The Indian embassy in Tripoli had&nbsp;been closed since April 2019 due to the deteriorating security situation in Libya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-floods-thousands-still-missing-after-catastrophic-tragedy-bodies-wash-up-on-far-away-beaches-636330">Libya floods: Thousands still missing after catastrophic tragedy, bodies wash up on far-away beaches</a>

The Indian embassy in Tunisia was accredited to Libya and dealt with the situation regarding the Indian community in the country. With its reopening, Libyan citizens will once again be able to obtain visas. The opening of the embassy also&nbsp;represents a positive development for the Indian community in the country.

Earlier this year, Libya's Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Mohamed Khalil Issa, visited India and met with key MEA officials, including Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan.

An Indian delegation also visited Libya in August 2023.

Due to now-receded civil unrest in Libya, the Indian government imposed a travel ban on Indian nationals travelling to Libya in April 2016. This ban remains in effect, especially given the reports of abductions of Indian workers in the country.

In September 2020, seven Indian workers were kidnapped while travelling from Benghazi to Tripoli, and in February 2022, 27 Indian workers were evacuated from Benghazi in Eastern Libya.

Born in the Indian city of&nbsp;Gorakhpur,&nbsp;Tabassum Mansoor, who runs the Indian International School in Benghazi, has played a crucial role in the evacuation and repatriation of Indian nationals from Libya.&nbsp;

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli, Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU) announced in a statement.

After a gap of five years, India has "reopened" its embassy in Tripoli, Libya's foreign ministry led by its Government of National Unity (GNU) announced in a statement. The development marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between the two nations. The first Indian diplomat has reached the country after a gap of several years. Dr Mohd. Aleem has been appointed as the Charge d'Affaires (CdA) at the reopened Indian Embassy in Tripoli. Previously, Dr Aleem served as the Under Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) West Asia & North Africa Division (WANA). According to a statement from the GNU, the embassy's reopening is viewed as an "important step" for the ties between the two countries. The embassy was "reopened" following a ceremony on Monday (Jul 21), attended by the Libyan side as well. The Indian embassy in Tripoli had been closed since April 2019 due to the deteriorating security situation in Libya. Also read | Libya floods: Thousands still missing after catastrophic tragedy, bodies wash up on far-away beaches The Indian embassy in Tunisia was accredited to Libya and dealt with the situation regarding the Indian community in the country. With its reopening, Libyan citizens will once again be able to obtain visas. The opening of the embassy also represents a positive development for the Indian community in the country. Earlier this year, Libya's Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Mohamed Khalil Issa, visited India and met with key MEA officials, including Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan. An Indian delegation also visited Libya in August 2023. Due to now-receded civil unrest in Libya, the Indian government imposed a travel ban on Indian nationals travelling to Libya in April 2016. This ban remains in effect, especially given the reports of abductions of Indian workers in the country. In September 2020, seven Indian workers were kidnapped while travelling from Benghazi to Tripoli, and in February 2022, 27 Indian workers were evacuated from Benghazi in Eastern Libya. Born in the Indian city of Gorakhpur, Tabassum Mansoor, who runs the Indian International School in Benghazi, has played a crucial role in the evacuation and repatriation of Indian nationals from Libya.

India 'reopens' embassy in Libya after five years

From sharing food and nap times to family gatherings, Libyan Abdel Fattah Al-Saadi has been raising predatory animals as his pets inside his home in Libya's Tripoli. Here's a report on why some North African and Arab nations allow people to breed or domesticate wild animals.

Libya: Man raises predatory animals at home as his pets

A powerful sandstorm is blowing across eastern Libya, disrupting air traffic and shutting down airports, public administration, and schools in the region...

Sandstorm hits East Libya

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. In a statement, the IOM said it was profoundly shocked and alarmed, adding that the circumstances of the deaths remained unknown.&nbsp;

"...but it is believed that they died in the process of being smuggled through the desert," the statement added. Libya has launched an investigation into the deaths, a report by the news agency AFP said.

In its statement, the IOM also called on Libyan authorities to ensure a dignified recovery, identification and transfer of the remains of the deceased migrants, and notify their families.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sixty-migrants-feared-drowned-crossing-mediterranean-from-libya-700420">Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya</a>

The UN agency further said that these deaths showed “the urgent need to address the challenges of irregular migration including through a coordinated response to the smuggling of migrants and trafficking in persons.”

“Without regular pathways that provide opportunities for legal migration, such tragedies will continue to be a feature along this route,” it added.&nbsp;

In an unverified message on Facebook, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the interior ministry in Tripoli said the bodies were discovered in al-Jahriya Valley in Al Shuwairf town. The CID said that after taking the DNA samples, all bodies were buried in a cemetery on instructions from the attorney general of the appeals chamber in Gharyan town.&nbsp;

Over a decade of violent instability since the 2011 overthrow and killing of the dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a Nato-backed uprising helped turn Libya into a fertile ground for people smugglers and traffickers, who have long been accused of abuses against migrants.

The IOM's Missing Migrants project has said that at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances were recorded last year along the Mediterranean route to Europe.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said.

The United Nations migration agency said on Friday (Mar 22) that a mass grave containing at least 65 bodies was discovered in southwest Libya. The mass grave was discovered by Libyan security forces, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. In a statement, the IOM said it was profoundly shocked and alarmed, adding that the circumstances of the deaths remained unknown. "...but it is believed that they died in the process of being smuggled through the desert," the statement added. Libya has launched an investigation into the deaths, a report by the news agency AFP said. In its statement, the IOM also called on Libyan authorities to ensure a dignified recovery, identification and transfer of the remains of the deceased migrants, and notify their families. Also read | Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya The UN agency further said that these deaths showed “the urgent need to address the challenges of irregular migration including through a coordinated response to the smuggling of migrants and trafficking in persons.” “Without regular pathways that provide opportunities for legal migration, such tragedies will continue to be a feature along this route,” it added. In an unverified message on Facebook, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the interior ministry in Tripoli said the bodies were discovered in al-Jahriya Valley in Al Shuwairf town. The CID said that after taking the DNA samples, all bodies were buried in a cemetery on instructions from the attorney general of the appeals chamber in Gharyan town. Over a decade of violent instability since the 2011 overthrow and killing of the dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a Nato-backed uprising helped turn Libya into a fertile ground for people smugglers and traffickers, who have long been accused of abuses against migrants. The IOM's Missing Migrants project has said that at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances were recorded last year along the Mediterranean route to Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Mass grave of 65 people discovered in southwest Libya, says UN agency; probe launched

A German charity NGO has accused the Libyan Coast Guard of interfering during a Rescue Mission in the southern Mediterranean Sea. A video shot by the crew members shows the Coast Guard maneuvering very close to two rescue boats and a wooden boat of migrants. Watch to know more!

German NGO accuses Libyan coast guard of hampering migrant rescue operations

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter.

The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024.

"The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X.

"Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added.

There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard.

The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report.

"Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area.

The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday.

It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the&nbsp;migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks.

Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;and often temporarily impounding their ships.

Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores.

Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday. SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter. The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500 migrants died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024. "The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X. "Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added. There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard. The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report. "Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X. In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area. The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday. It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks. Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark migrants and often temporarily impounding their ships. Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea migrants making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores. Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968 migrants have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown.

The National Oil Corporation (NOC) announced the "lifting of force majeure" and the resumption of "full production" at Al-Sharara, which normally produces up to 315,000 barrels per day.

The NOC on January 7 declared "force majeure" at the southwestern oilfield "due to the closure of the site by protesters". 
 
It did not elaborate at the time on the protesters' demands.

Repeated interruptions in crude production in the war-torn North African country have been caused by social and political protests amid clashes between rival factions.

Watch | 2023: Rise of military rulers in Africa, military rulers fighting for control in Sudan

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A local group in Oubari region, "Fezzan Gathering", announced earlier on Sunday they had reached an agreement with the NOC to end their protest action at Al-Sharara.

"In an agreement with the president of the NOC, in which he vowed to concede to our demands... we announce the suspension of our sit-in at the Al-Sharara field," a representative of the group said in a Facebook video.

Both the NOC and "Fezzan Gathering" did not share the details of the accord.

According to the protest group, they have received "guarantees" from military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who backs one of Libya's two rival administrations.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ten-killed-in-sudan-landmine-explosion-medical-source-682170">Ten killed in Sudan landmine explosion: medical source</a>

Declaring "force majeure" allows parties to free themselves from contractual obligations when factors such as fighting or natural disasters make meeting them impossible.

Libya sits on Africa's largest oil reserves but production has been frequently disrupted during over a decade of chaos since a NATO-backed uprising led to the ouster and killing of former dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Libya remains split between a UN-recognised government in the west and an eastern-based administration backed by Haftar. 
Oil revenues are vital to the economy, and the NOC is one of the few institutions in the troubled country to have stayed in one piece.

The Al-Sharara field, in the desert 900 kilometres (560 miles) south of Tripoli, is operated by a joint venture between the NOC and four European companies.

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown.

Libya's state-owned energy firm said Sunday production had resumed at Al-Sharara oilfield, which provides a quarter of the country's daily oil output, two weeks after protests led to a shutdown. The National Oil Corporation (NOC) announced the "lifting of force majeure" and the resumption of "full production" at Al-Sharara, which normally produces up to 315,000 barrels per day. The NOC on January 7 declared "force majeure" at the southwestern oilfield "due to the closure of the site by protesters". It did not elaborate at the time on the protesters' demands. Repeated interruptions in crude production in the war-torn North African country have been caused by social and political protests amid clashes between rival factions. Watch | 2023: Rise of military rulers in Africa, military rulers fighting for control in Sudan × A local group in Oubari region, "Fezzan Gathering", announced earlier on Sunday they had reached an agreement with the NOC to end their protest action at Al-Sharara. "In an agreement with the president of the NOC, in which he vowed to concede to our demands... we announce the suspension of our sit-in at the Al-Sharara field," a representative of the group said in a Facebook video. Both the NOC and "Fezzan Gathering" did not share the details of the accord. According to the protest group, they have received "guarantees" from military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who backs one of Libya's two rival administrations. Also Read | Ten killed in Sudan landmine explosion: medical source Declaring "force majeure" allows parties to free themselves from contractual obligations when factors such as fighting or natural disasters make meeting them impossible. Libya sits on Africa's largest oil reserves but production has been frequently disrupted during over a decade of chaos since a NATO-backed uprising led to the ouster and killing of former dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. Libya remains split between a UN-recognised government in the west and an eastern-based administration backed by Haftar. Oil revenues are vital to the economy, and the NOC is one of the few institutions in the troubled country to have stayed in one piece. The Al-Sharara field, in the desert 900 kilometres (560 miles) south of Tripoli, is operated by a joint venture between the NOC and four European companies.

Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt

Libya's Stock Market reopened its doors on Monday in the capital, Tripoli, after being closed for over nine years due to political and security challenges. The reopening ceremony was marked by the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bashir Mohamed Ashour, along with other officials ringing the bell to signify the resumption of trading.<o:p></o:p>

During the ceremony, Prime Minister al-Dbeibah expressed the importance of the stock market as a key economic instrument, stating, "The importance of the stock market is embodied in doubling the gross domestic product and helping to close the budget deficit, which reduces the burden on the state’s general budget." <o:p></o:p>

He highlighted the role of the stock market in contributing to economic growth and fiscal stability. Ashour, the Chairman of the Board, emphasised that the market's success would hinge on the "stability and development of the various sectors of the state".<o:p></o:p>

The stock market's impact is expected to extend beyond Tripoli, as it also operates a trading hall in Libya's second-largest city, Benghazi. <o:p></o:p>

According to sources, trading is anticipated to resume in Benghazi next week, marking a broader effort to restore financial activities across the country. As the market strives for success, Ashour outlined its commitment to increasing the volume of listings, signalling potential growth opportunities for companies looking to participate in the revived market.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the reopening, the initial trading day saw limited activity. Out of the ten listed companies, only three actively traded, according to Lamin Haman, the market's media adviser. <o:p></o:p>

The market, originally launched in 2006, faced interruptions in the aftermath of the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 and subsequent civil strife in 2014, leading to the suspension of trading on multiple occasions. Notably, the conflict also resulted in the division of Libya between warring eastern and western factions, complicating the nation's economic recovery.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Libya's Stock Market reopened its doors on Monday in the capital, Tripoli, after being closed for over nine years due to political and security challenges. The reopening ceremony was marked by the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bashir Mohamed Ashour, along with other officials ringing the bell to signify the resumption of trading.

Libya's Stock Market reopened its doors on Monday in the capital, Tripoli, after being closed for over nine years due to political and security challenges. The reopening ceremony was marked by the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bashir Mohamed Ashour, along with other officials ringing the bell to signify the resumption of trading. During the ceremony, Prime Minister al-Dbeibah expressed the importance of the stock market as a key economic instrument, stating, "The importance of the stock market is embodied in doubling the gross domestic product and helping to close the budget deficit, which reduces the burden on the state’s general budget." He highlighted the role of the stock market in contributing to economic growth and fiscal stability. Ashour, the Chairman of the Board, emphasised that the market's success would hinge on the "stability and development of the various sectors of the state". The stock market's impact is expected to extend beyond Tripoli, as it also operates a trading hall in Libya's second-largest city, Benghazi. According to sources, trading is anticipated to resume in Benghazi next week, marking a broader effort to restore financial activities across the country. As the market strives for success, Ashour outlined its commitment to increasing the volume of listings, signalling potential growth opportunities for companies looking to participate in the revived market. Despite the reopening, the initial trading day saw limited activity. Out of the ten listed companies, only three actively traded, according to Lamin Haman, the market's media adviser. The market, originally launched in 2006, faced interruptions in the aftermath of the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 and subsequent civil strife in 2014, leading to the suspension of trading on multiple occasions. Notably, the conflict also resulted in the division of Libya between warring eastern and western factions, complicating the nation's economic recovery. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Libya's stock market resumes trading after 9-year hiatus

More than 60 people, including women and children, are said to have drowned in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya, on Saturday (Dec 16), according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).&nbsp;

The United Nations agency citing survivors said that the boat carrying around 86 people departed the Libyan city of Zwara.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know</h2>

According to the IOM, at least 61 people, including women and children, are missing and presumed dead.&nbsp;

A “large number of migrants” are believed to have died because of high waves which swamped their vessel, the UN agency’s office in Libya told AFP, in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-40-migrants-missing-after-boat-capsizes-off-italian-island-of-lampedusa-608029">Around 40 migrants missing after boat capsizes between Italy and Tunisia</a>

At least 25 people were rescued and transferred to a Libyan detention centre, said the IOM, adding that the organisation’s team “provided medical support” and the survivors are all in good condition.&nbsp;

Most of the victims, involved in the latest incident, are from Nigeria, Gambia and other African countries, said the UN agency. “The central Mediterranean continues to be one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes,” said the IOM, in a statement on X.&nbsp;

Flavio Di Giacomo, an IOM spokesperson took to X and said more than 2,250 people died this year on the central Mediterranean migrant route, a “dramatic figure which demonstrates that unfortunately not enough is being done to save lives at sea”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-five-killed-seven-missing-after-migrant-boat-capsizes-off-tunisian-coast-625496">At least five killed, seven missing after migrant boat capsizes off Tunisian coast</a>

<h2>Rise in number of&nbsp;migrant boats</h2>

Since the beginning of this year, there has been a dramatic rise in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

Libya and Tunisia are said to be one of the main departure points for refugees and asylum seekers risking dangerous sea voyages in hopes of reaching Europe. More than 153,000 migrants arrived in Italy this year from Tunisia and Libya, according to the UN refugee agency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-boat-with-400-on-board-slowly-sinking-between-libya-and-malta-580810">Migrant boat with 400 on board slowly sinking between Libya and Malta</a>

In June, the Adriana, a fishing boat loaded with 750 people which departed from Libya and was en route to Italy, sank in international waters off southwest Greece.&nbsp;

An AFP report citing survivors said, the ship was carrying mainly Syrians, Pakistanis and Egyptians. Over 104 people survived and 82 bodies were reportedly recovered after the deadly incident.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 60 people, including women and children, are said to have drowned in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya, on Saturday (Dec 16), according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

More than 60 people, including women and children, are said to have drowned in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya, on Saturday (Dec 16), according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The United Nations agency citing survivors said that the boat carrying around 86 people departed the Libyan city of Zwara. What we know According to the IOM, at least 61 people, including women and children, are missing and presumed dead. A “large number of migrants” are believed to have died because of high waves which swamped their vessel, the UN agency’s office in Libya told AFP, in a statement. ALSO READ | Around 40 migrants missing after boat capsizes between Italy and Tunisia At least 25 people were rescued and transferred to a Libyan detention centre, said the IOM, adding that the organisation’s team “provided medical support” and the survivors are all in good condition. Most of the victims, involved in the latest incident, are from Nigeria, Gambia and other African countries, said the UN agency. “The central Mediterranean continues to be one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes,” said the IOM, in a statement on X. Flavio Di Giacomo, an IOM spokesperson took to X and said more than 2,250 people died this year on the central Mediterranean migrant route, a “dramatic figure which demonstrates that unfortunately not enough is being done to save lives at sea”. ALSO READ | At least five killed, seven missing after migrant boat capsizes off Tunisian coast Rise in number of migrant boats Since the beginning of this year, there has been a dramatic rise in the number of Europe-bound central Mediterranean migrant crossings from North Africa which is said to be the world’s deadliest, according to the United Nations. Libya and Tunisia are said to be one of the main departure points for refugees and asylum seekers risking dangerous sea voyages in hopes of reaching Europe. More than 153,000 migrants arrived in Italy this year from Tunisia and Libya, according to the UN refugee agency. ALSO READ | Migrant boat with 400 on board slowly sinking between Libya and Malta In June, the Adriana, a fishing boat loaded with 750 people which departed from Libya and was en route to Italy, sank in international waters off southwest Greece. An AFP report citing survivors said, the ship was carrying mainly Syrians, Pakistanis and Egyptians. Over 104 people survived and 82 bodies were reportedly recovered after the deadly incident. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 60 people, including women and children, drown in shipwreck off Libya, says IOM

Russia plans a naval base on the black sea coast of the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia. The decision comes on the back of several attacks on Russia’s black sea fleet that have embarrassed the Kremlin. Russia and Georgia fought a war in 2008. After the 2008 war, Moscow recognised the independence of Abkhazia and another Moscow-backed separatist region, south Ossetia. Russia has stationed permanent military bases in both regions. Tensions have escalated on the key black sea waterway. In July, Russia exited a deal guaranteeing safe passage for cargo ships to and from Ukraine’s black sea ports. Ukraine last month struck the headquarters of Russia’s black sea fleet on the annexed Crimean peninsula, in a major humiliation for Moscow.

Russia to get Naval base in Libya?

The prosecutor general of Libya on Monday (September 25) gave orders for the arrest of eight officials, which included the mayor of Derna, as part of his inquiry into the recent floods in which thousands were killed.&nbsp;

The flash flood, which according to witnesses appeared like a tsunami, broke two dams on September 10 after the area around the port city of Derna was lashed by a hurricane-strength storm.&nbsp;

The officials have been suspected of negligence and "bad management", said the prosecutor general's office in a statement, adding that they worked previously or currently in offices which are responsible for dam management and water resources.

The official death toll due to floods crossed 3,800 on Saturday and international aid groups stated that 10,000 or more people are feared to be missing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-libya-hundreds-protest-against-authorities-in-flood-hit-derna-637310">Libya: Hundreds protest against authorities in flood-hit Derna</a>

After starting an investigation, Libya's prosecutor general Al-Seddik al-Sur said that there were cracks in the two dams, upstream from Derna, since 1998.

The repair work, which was started by a Turkish company in 2010, was suspended after some months when Libya's 2011 revolution flared. After this, the dam's repair work never resumed, said the prosecutor on September 16, as he vowed to firmly deal with those responsible. &nbsp;

<h2>Collapse of dams</h2>

In the disaster, the first dam which collapsed was the Abu Mansur dam, which is 13 kilometres (eight miles) from Derna and whose reservoir contained 22.5 million cubic metres (nearly 800 million cubic feet) of water.&nbsp;

The second dam which broke in the deluge was Al Biladm which had a capacity of 1.5 million cubic metres and was only a kilometre away from the coastal city.&nbsp;

The debris and flooding water swept through the normally dry riverbed or wadi which cuts through the city centre.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Libya's flood survivors demand accountability, hold protests

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A Yugoslav company had constructed both dams in the 1970s, "not to collect water but to protect Derna from floods", Sour stated earlier.

After Libya's 2011 revolution, the government allocated a budget every year to repair the two dams, however, the repair work was not undertaken by any of the successive governments, as per an official.&nbsp;

In a 2021 report prepared by the Libyan audit bureau, officials slammed "procrastination" on the resumption of repair work at the two dams.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The prosecutor general of Libya on Monday (September 25) gave orders for the arrest of eight officials, which included the mayor of Derna, as part of his inquiry into the recent floods in which thousands were killed.

The prosecutor general of Libya on Monday (September 25) gave orders for the arrest of eight officials, which included the mayor of Derna, as part of his inquiry into the recent floods in which thousands were killed. The flash flood, which according to witnesses appeared like a tsunami, broke two dams on September 10 after the area around the port city of Derna was lashed by a hurricane-strength storm. The officials have been suspected of negligence and "bad management", said the prosecutor general's office in a statement, adding that they worked previously or currently in offices which are responsible for dam management and water resources. The official death toll due to floods crossed 3,800 on Saturday and international aid groups stated that 10,000 or more people are feared to be missing. ALSO READ | Libya: Hundreds protest against authorities in flood-hit Derna After starting an investigation, Libya's prosecutor general Al-Seddik al-Sur said that there were cracks in the two dams, upstream from Derna, since 1998. The repair work, which was started by a Turkish company in 2010, was suspended after some months when Libya's 2011 revolution flared. After this, the dam's repair work never resumed, said the prosecutor on September 16, as he vowed to firmly deal with those responsible. Collapse of dams In the disaster, the first dam which collapsed was the Abu Mansur dam, which is 13 kilometres (eight miles) from Derna and whose reservoir contained 22.5 million cubic metres (nearly 800 million cubic feet) of water. The second dam which broke in the deluge was Al Biladm which had a capacity of 1.5 million cubic metres and was only a kilometre away from the coastal city. The debris and flooding water swept through the normally dry riverbed or wadi which cuts through the city centre. WATCH | Libya's flood survivors demand accountability, hold protests A Yugoslav company had constructed both dams in the 1970s, "not to collect water but to protect Derna from floods", Sour stated earlier. After Libya's 2011 revolution, the government allocated a budget every year to repair the two dams, however, the repair work was not undertaken by any of the successive governments, as per an official. In a 2021 report prepared by the Libyan audit bureau, officials slammed "procrastination" on the resumption of repair work at the two dams. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Libya floods aftermath: Arrest orders for Derna mayor, 7 other officials

Libya Floods: Residents of Derna wake up to yet another day in their devastated city

Libya: 12 days on, search operations continue

More than 100 Syrians, including entire families, died in flash flooding that killed thousands in Libya's eastern city of Derna last week, a war monitor said.

Thousands of Syrians fled their war-torn homeland over the past 12 years for Libya, which has become a launchpad for migrants hoping to make the perilous voyage to Europe by sea.

"In total, 112 Syrians were killed in the flood and more than 100 are still missing," said Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor.

The flooding has killed nearly 3,300 people and left thousands more missing as war-scarred Libya was lashed by the hurricane-strength Storm Daniel on September 10.

"I lost two nephews, their wives and six of their children" including a six-month-old baby, Syrian construction worker Khaled Ali told AFP over the phone from Derna.

His nephews Hadi and Mahmoud had taken refuge in Lebanon after Syria's war erupted in 2011, but they later fled to Libya after their country's economy collapsed in late 2019.

"We fled from one crisis to another," said the 37-year-old who hails from Daraa province, the cradle of Syria's 2011 uprising that the government brutally suppressed.&nbsp;

"This is our fate".

He identified his nephews' bodies in pictures posted on Facebook, he said.

Families of Syrians who disappeared in the tragedy have been sharing photographs of their relatives on Facebook groups, asking for their whereabouts.

Damascus resident Ibrahim Qalaaji, 46, held a funeral for eight relatives including his brother Mohammed, who are either dead or missing in the disaster, he told AFP over the phone.

"A doctor there told us my brother and his wife had died, but there is no trace of the rest of the family," he said. 
Mohammed had been in Libya since 2000.

His surviving brother Shadi was swept away from a rooftop and held on to a mosque's minaret as the waters hurled dead bodies towards him.

Shadi lost all his belongings, including identification papers, in the disaster, Qalaaji said.

"He has no past, no present, no future."

Syria's war has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions.

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More than 100 Syrians, including entire families, died in flash flooding that killed thousands in Libya's eastern city of Derna last week, a war monitor said. Thousands of Syrians fled their war-torn homeland over the past 12 years for Libya, which has become a launchpad for migrants hoping to make the perilous voyage to Europe by sea.

More than 100 Syrians, including entire families, died in flash flooding that killed thousands in Libya's eastern city of Derna last week, a war monitor said. Thousands of Syrians fled their war-torn homeland over the past 12 years for Libya, which has become a launchpad for migrants hoping to make the perilous voyage to Europe by sea. "In total, 112 Syrians were killed in the flood and more than 100 are still missing," said Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor. The flooding has killed nearly 3,300 people and left thousands more missing as war-scarred Libya was lashed by the hurricane-strength Storm Daniel on September 10. "I lost two nephews, their wives and six of their children" including a six-month-old baby, Syrian construction worker Khaled Ali told AFP over the phone from Derna. His nephews Hadi and Mahmoud had taken refuge in Lebanon after Syria's war erupted in 2011, but they later fled to Libya after their country's economy collapsed in late 2019. "We fled from one crisis to another," said the 37-year-old who hails from Daraa province, the cradle of Syria's 2011 uprising that the government brutally suppressed. "This is our fate". He identified his nephews' bodies in pictures posted on Facebook, he said. Families of Syrians who disappeared in the tragedy have been sharing photographs of their relatives on Facebook groups, asking for their whereabouts. Damascus resident Ibrahim Qalaaji, 46, held a funeral for eight relatives including his brother Mohammed, who are either dead or missing in the disaster, he told AFP over the phone. "A doctor there told us my brother and his wife had died, but there is no trace of the rest of the family," he said. Mohammed had been in Libya since 2000. His surviving brother Shadi was swept away from a rooftop and held on to a mosque's minaret as the waters hurled dead bodies towards him. Shadi lost all his belongings, including identification papers, in the disaster, Qalaaji said. "He has no past, no present, no future." Syria's war has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

More than 100 Syrians dead in Libya flood: monitor

In pics | Libya: Hundreds protest against authorities in flood-hit Derna

Thousands of people lost their lives in devastating flash floods in Libya, which struck the coastal city of Derna earlier this month. The region has been reeling with the distressing aftermath, with survivors struggling for basic amenities and rescue workers combing through mud and rubble to find bodies.&nbsp;

Fresh concerns have emerged after The Guardian reported that the warlord, Khalifa Haftar and his sons, are using&nbsp;disaster response as a means to exert control.&nbsp;

The death toll has climbed to 11,300, the United Nations said in an update on Saturday (September 16), citing the Libyan Red Crescent. Another 10,100 people are still missing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flames-engulf-landmark-skyscraper-in-khartoum-amid-sudan-conflict-636943">Flames engulf landmark skyscraper in Khartoum amid Sudan conflict</a>&nbsp;

But the Libyan Red Crescent denied the death toll, with spokesman Tawfik Shoukri telling news agency AFP from Benghazi that "we are shocked to see our name mixed up with these figures". He added that "they add to the confusion and distress of the families of the missing".&nbsp;

First responders and rescue workers worked day and night to help the survivors, and they were sometimes surrounded by militants from the Libyan National Army, which is a military coalition loyal to Haftar.&nbsp;

The newspaper mentioned in its report that some of the observers described a few instances as efforts to keep a grip on vital assistance arriving in the flood-ravaged city.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-climate-protesters-spray-paint-on-berlins-iconic-brandenburg-gate-636897">Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island&nbsp;

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As quoted, Emadeddin Badi, an analyst on Libya with the Atlantic Council, said: "Essentially there is a military presence that is creating bottlenecks rather than being conducive to the provision of relief."&nbsp;

"The main thrust of relief efforts was not facilitated by the military leadership, which had a vested interest in appearing in control while skirting responsibility and victim-blaming, but instead by volunteers, medical teams, Red Crescent, boy scouts and foreign search and rescue teams," Badi added.&nbsp;

Badi added, "On the public relations side, they are leveraging their pre-existing propaganda channels to appear in control, while being the main interface for administering crisis relief and being the custodians of the city. But again, that’s creating bottlenecks everywhere. Haftar’s visit was a microcosm of this issue, everything was frozen for an hour for a PR stunt."

Previously, politicians and analysts highlighted that over a decade of bloody power battles in Libya&nbsp;resulted in vital infrastructure falling into disrepair, culminating in the catastrophic death toll.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thousands of people lost their lives in devastating flash floods in Libya, which struck the coastal city of Derna earlier this month. The region has been reeling with the distressing aftermath, with survivors struggling for basic amenities and rescue workers combing through mud and rubble to find bodies.

Thousands of people lost their lives in devastating flash floods in Libya, which struck the coastal city of Derna earlier this month. The region has been reeling with the distressing aftermath, with survivors struggling for basic amenities and rescue workers combing through mud and rubble to find bodies. Fresh concerns have emerged after The Guardian reported that the warlord, Khalifa Haftar and his sons, are using disaster response as a means to exert control. The death toll has climbed to 11,300, the United Nations said in an update on Saturday (September 16), citing the Libyan Red Crescent. Another 10,100 people are still missing. Also read: Flames engulf landmark skyscraper in Khartoum amid Sudan conflict But the Libyan Red Crescent denied the death toll, with spokesman Tawfik Shoukri telling news agency AFP from Benghazi that "we are shocked to see our name mixed up with these figures". He added that "they add to the confusion and distress of the families of the missing". First responders and rescue workers worked day and night to help the survivors, and they were sometimes surrounded by militants from the Libyan National Army, which is a military coalition loyal to Haftar. The newspaper mentioned in its report that some of the observers described a few instances as efforts to keep a grip on vital assistance arriving in the flood-ravaged city. Also read: Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate Watch: Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island × As quoted, Emadeddin Badi, an analyst on Libya with the Atlantic Council, said: "Essentially there is a military presence that is creating bottlenecks rather than being conducive to the provision of relief." "The main thrust of relief efforts was not facilitated by the military leadership, which had a vested interest in appearing in control while skirting responsibility and victim-blaming, but instead by volunteers, medical teams, Red Crescent, boy scouts and foreign search and rescue teams," Badi added. Badi added, "On the public relations side, they are leveraging their pre-existing propaganda channels to appear in control, while being the main interface for administering crisis relief and being the custodians of the city. But again, that’s creating bottlenecks everywhere. Haftar’s visit was a microcosm of this issue, everything was frozen for an hour for a PR stunt." Previously, politicians and analysts highlighted that over a decade of bloody power battles in Libya resulted in vital infrastructure falling into disrepair, culminating in the catastrophic death toll. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is this Libyan warlord trying to dominate disaster response in floods-hit Derna city?

The Libyan Red Crescent released a statement on Sunday (September 17), denying that last week's catastrophic flooding in Derna claimed the lives of 11,300 people after the United Nations shared the death toll in an update citing the rescue group.

"We are shocked to see our name mixed up with these figures," Libyan Red Crescent spokesman Tawfik Shoukri told AFP from Benghazi, adding that "they add to the confusion and distress of the families of the missing".

On Saturday, the United Nations, citing Red Crescent figures, said that the flooding had resulted in 11,300 deaths and added that another 10,100 people were missing in the city.

"These figures are expected to rise as search-and-rescue crews work tirelessly to find survivors," the UN update said.

Nearly a week after Storm Daniel hit northeastern Libya, "the humanitarian situation remains particularly grim in Derna," the update said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-asian-community-members-demand-justice-for-jaahnavi-kandula-meet-mayor-636889">South Asian community members demand justice for Jaahnavi Kandula, meet Seattle mayor</a>

<h2>UN says most casualties in Derna could have been averted</h2>

The United Nations (UN) said on Thursday (September 14) that most of the deaths due to floods in Libya's Derna could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had functioned properly.&nbsp;

During a press briefing in Geneva, Petteri Taalas, head of the UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said, "With better functioning coordination in the crisis-wracked country, "they could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties."

Taalas said that the lack of weather forecasting and dissemination and action on early warnings was a large contributor to the size of the disaster. He also said that the years-long internal conflict in the country meant its meteorological "observing network has been very much destroyed, the IT systems have been destroyed."

"The flooding events came and there was no evacuation taking place because there was not the proper early warning systems in place," the WMO chief further told reporters. "Of course, we cannot fully avoid economic losses, but we could have also minimised those losses by having proper services in place," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The Libyan Red Crescent released a statement on Sunday (September 17), denying that last week's catastrophic flooding in Derna claimed the lives of 11,300 people after the United Nations shared the death toll in an update citing the rescue group.

The Libyan Red Crescent released a statement on Sunday (September 17), denying that last week's catastrophic flooding in Derna claimed the lives of 11,300 people after the United Nations shared the death toll in an update citing the rescue group. "We are shocked to see our name mixed up with these figures," Libyan Red Crescent spokesman Tawfik Shoukri told AFP from Benghazi, adding that "they add to the confusion and distress of the families of the missing". On Saturday, the United Nations, citing Red Crescent figures, said that the flooding had resulted in 11,300 deaths and added that another 10,100 people were missing in the city. "These figures are expected to rise as search-and-rescue crews work tirelessly to find survivors," the UN update said. Nearly a week after Storm Daniel hit northeastern Libya, "the humanitarian situation remains particularly grim in Derna," the update said. Also read: South Asian community members demand justice for Jaahnavi Kandula, meet Seattle mayor UN says most casualties in Derna could have been averted The United Nations (UN) said on Thursday (September 14) that most of the deaths due to floods in Libya's Derna could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had functioned properly. During a press briefing in Geneva, Petteri Taalas, head of the UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said, "With better functioning coordination in the crisis-wracked country, "they could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties." Taalas said that the lack of weather forecasting and dissemination and action on early warnings was a large contributor to the size of the disaster. He also said that the years-long internal conflict in the country meant its meteorological "observing network has been very much destroyed, the IT systems have been destroyed." "The flooding events came and there was no evacuation taking place because there was not the proper early warning systems in place," the WMO chief further told reporters. "Of course, we cannot fully avoid economic losses, but we could have also minimised those losses by having proper services in place," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Libyan Red Crescent denies death toll of 11,300 cited by United Nations

The Libyan Red Crescent released a statement on Sunday, denying that last week's catastrophic flooding in Derna claimed the lives of 11,300 people after the United Nations shared the death toll in an update citing the rescue group.

Libya Earthquake: Libyan Red Crescent denies 11,300 death toll cited by UN

Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said. “I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him, and send him to trial,” Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said at a news conference.&nbsp; 
 
He disclosed that approximately $8 million had been allocated for dam maintenance. The allocation and spending of maintenance funds will also be investigated.

This comes as the United Nations, on September 14, highlighted that many deaths in Libya's Derna resulting from the floods could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had been functioning properly.

In the aftermath of heavy rains brought by Mediterranean storm Daniel, eastern Libya experienced widespread flooding. This led to the collapse of two dams near the port city of Derna earlier in the week, resulting in severe damage to a quarter of the area, which was subsequently declared a disaster zone.

Media reports quoting&nbsp;Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said that decades-old studies revealed cracks in the two dams. The dams were primarily built to safeguard the city from floods.

These studies indicated cracks and subsidence that could have eventually led to dam collapse, said Al-Sour.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-aid-groups-warn-of-disease-risk-as-country-struggles-to-recover-from-flood-636487">Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood</a>

A team comprising 26 prosecutors will be dispatched to Derna to document victims and ascertain the causes of death, he said. As investigations are ongoing, an accurate count of the fatalities remains unavailable.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/up-to-south-to-change-rules-of-game-g77china-urges-for-new-global-order-at-cuba-summit-636568">'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit</a>

<h2>Staggering number of deaths</h2>

The Libyan Red Crescent reported that, as of Friday (September 15), at least 11,300 people have lost their lives, and an additional 10,100 were still missing in the wake of the devastating floods.

Derna's mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi has&nbsp;expressed concerns that the death toll in Derna alone could exceed 20,000, given the extent of the damage.

WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue

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<h2>Extreme rainfall&nbsp;</h2>

Libya's National Center of Meteorology reported that more than 16 inches of rain fell within a 24-hour period in the northeastern city of Bayda. Climate experts have reportedly linked this disaster to the impacts of a warming planet, exacerbated by years of political instability and deteriorating infrastructure in the country.

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Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said.

Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said. “I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him, and send him to trial,” Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said at a news conference. He disclosed that approximately $8 million had been allocated for dam maintenance. The allocation and spending of maintenance funds will also be investigated. This comes as the United Nations, on September 14, highlighted that many deaths in Libya's Derna resulting from the floods could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had been functioning properly. In the aftermath of heavy rains brought by Mediterranean storm Daniel, eastern Libya experienced widespread flooding. This led to the collapse of two dams near the port city of Derna earlier in the week, resulting in severe damage to a quarter of the area, which was subsequently declared a disaster zone. Media reports quoting Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said that decades-old studies revealed cracks in the two dams. The dams were primarily built to safeguard the city from floods. These studies indicated cracks and subsidence that could have eventually led to dam collapse, said Al-Sour. Also Read | Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood A team comprising 26 prosecutors will be dispatched to Derna to document victims and ascertain the causes of death, he said. As investigations are ongoing, an accurate count of the fatalities remains unavailable. Also Read | 'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit Staggering number of deaths The Libyan Red Crescent reported that, as of Friday (September 15), at least 11,300 people have lost their lives, and an additional 10,100 were still missing in the wake of the devastating floods. Derna's mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi has expressed concerns that the death toll in Derna alone could exceed 20,000, given the extent of the damage. WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue × Extreme rainfall Libya's National Center of Meteorology reported that more than 16 inches of rain fell within a 24-hour period in the northeastern city of Bayda. Climate experts have reportedly linked this disaster to the impacts of a warming planet, exacerbated by years of political instability and deteriorating infrastructure in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Libya dam collapse: Probe launched into allocation of maintenance funds

At least 20,000 people are estimated to have died in Libya after two dams collapsed near the port city of Derna. In Morocco, nearly 3000 people died after a 6.8 magnitude quake shook the country late on Sept 8. Who is to be blamed? The twin disasters? or the tragic unpreparedness? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Death & Devastation: Libya Floods and Morocco Earthquake | This World

On 10 September 2023, Storm Daniel made landfall in Libya causing severe weather conditions, including strong winds and sudden heavy rainfall affecting several areas in the country. Massive flooding has killed over 20,000, with thousands still missing.

Libya: After horrifying floods, threat of diseases loom

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