On Tuesday, the U.S. Embassy in Libya called on all parties to the conflict to de-escalate, respect international humanitarian law, in addition to refraining from acts of retribution and vandalism, targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. It added that all violators will be held accountable.
In a statement, the U.S. Embassy voiced its concerns over the humanitarian crisis in the city of Sirte. It pointed out the work it has undertaken alongside the international community to help Sirte recover, following its occupation by IS.
It warned against dragging the city into another devastating battle, noting that the continued fighting in Sirte would only compound the suffering of civilians, sow divisions that could be exploited by extremists, and divert resources away from the COVID-19 response.
The Embassy also said that the U.S. Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have provided over $25 million in stabilization and early recovery efforts to consolidate the defeat of IS and build for a peaceful future in the Libyan city.