On Friday, the Italian government has announced the completion of its humanitarian mission in Derna, and other devastated areas in eastern Libya.
Italian naval ships, San Giorgio and San Marco, which carried the rescue teams departed the port of Derna, according to the Italian news agency, Nova.
Italian military personnel and civil protection units participated in clearing debris from the Derna port area. The Italian Navy supported body recovery operations using helicopters and boats, all done in coordination with Libyan authorities.
Nello Musumeci, Italy’s Minister of Civil Protection and Sea Policies, told Nova that the Italian civil protection team will leave Libya, after two weeks of intensive work. During this period, highly specialised personnel and various means were used to provide essential assistance to flood-affected residents.
Italian Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto expressed Italy’s readiness to help those facing difficulties. He affirmed that working together is essential for achieving stability and peace.
On 13 September, the San Giorgio ship was sent to Libya to assist with logistical tasks and medical support. The San Marco ship transported personnel, vehicles, and supplies.
Additionally, Italy deployed a Trimeti ship alongside two Navy helicopters for search and rescue operations.
Italy’s Army soil transport and rescue vehicles were also used. Italian Air Force “C-130” aircraft were employed for transporting materials and personnel.
On 10 September, a devastating storm swept through several eastern regions of Libya, notably the cities of Derna, Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al-Marj, and Sousse. This resulted in significant destruction and led to the loss of thousands of lives, injuries, and missing individuals.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres has called a flood that killed thousands in Derna, Libya a “symbol of the world’s ills.”
“Derna is a sad snapshot of the state of our world – the flood of inequity, of injustice, of inability to confront the challenges in our midst,” Guterres added.