Storm Daniel leaves thousands missing in Libya: LNA Spox

CAIRO - 13 Septemebr 2023: Libya, a nation already grappling with political and social challenges, faced another adversity as Storm Daniel wreaked havoc, particularly in the eastern city of Derna. General Ahmed Al-Mismari, the official spokesperson for the General Commander of the Libyan Armed Forces, has expressed concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in an interview with Cairo News.

According to Al-Mismari, the storm, with its unforgiving rage, has led to the disappearance of almost 9,000 individuals. Disturbingly, the sea waters have swallowed the ground cover, leading to the obliteration of various pathways in Derna, making rescue and relief operations particularly challenging.

In his telephonic address to Cairo News, the spokesperson disclosed that the death toll had risen to a staggering 7,000, and the accessibility issues caused by damaged roads and gorges were hampering aid efforts.

However, amidst this grave situation, relevant authorities are relentlessly working towards enhancing humanitarian assistance for those affected by the cyclone across Libyan cities.

Tariq Al-Kharraz, the spokesperson for Libya's Ministry of Interior, confirmed his presence in the storm-hit city of Derna to oversee the unfolding situation. Emphasizing the severity of the crisis, Al-Kharraz stated that multiple regions and cities in eastern Libya had been impacted by the storm, and the number of victims, especially in Derna, was alarmingly high.

In a heartfelt acknowledgment of the loss, Al-Kharraz noted that identified victims of Storm Daniel in Derna had been buried recently. Regrettably, about 1,100 individuals remained unidentified, but were laid to rest to ensure they remain dignified and unaffected by decomposition.

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi received a phone call, Tuesday from President of the Libyan Presidential Council Mohamed Al-Menfi to express his appreciation for the Egyptian efforts supporting his country in the wake of ‘storm Daniel’ repercussions.