Eko Hot Blog reports that the devastating floods that have hit Libya in recent days have caused widespread damage and loss of life. But they have also brought the country’s rival governments together in a rare show of unity.
Flags are flying at half mast in Tripoli as the country sets aside three days for national mourning. And aid from western Libya and other countries has started to pour into the east of the country.
“The loss is being felt across the country,” said Al Jazeera’s Malik Traina, reporting from Tripoli. “People are blaming government negligence, but they are also hoping the devastation can finally unite the country’s rival politicians.”
The two rival governments have been at odds for years, but they have put aside their differences to focus on the immediate relief effort.
“This is a time for all Libyans to come together,” said Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, the prime minister of the Government of National Unity. “We must put our differences aside and work together to rebuild our country.”
The floods have also been a wake-up call for the international community. The United Nations has called for $200 million in aid to help Libya recover from the disaster.
“This is a major humanitarian crisis,” said Martin Griffiths, the UN humanitarian chief. “We need the international community to step up and help the people of Libya.”
The floods are a reminder of the fragility of peace in Libya. But they are also a sign of hope that the country’s rival politicians can put aside their differences and work together to build a better future for all Libyans.
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