Calm has returned to the Libyan city of Misrata after an ammunition depot exploded on Sunday in the Skeirat area, scattering shells into nearby residential zones.
The Misrata Medical Center confirmed it had received 15 patients with minor injuries, all of whom were discharged after receiving treatment.
Local media reported that the blast caused several shells to fall within residential neighborhoods but did not result in major damage or fatalities.
The National Safety Authority in Misrata later announced that the fire had been brought fully under control after several hours.
Meanwhile, the Libyan Mine Action and War Remnants Center urged citizens not to approach or touch dangerous objects left behind by the explosion. The center also provided emergency hotlines for residents to report any suspicious explosive materials requiring urgent intervention.
The incident raised concerns about the presence of weapons and explosives in urban areas, though authorities stressed that the situation in Misrata has since stabilized.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
