The UK Government has unveiled a support package "worth up to £1 million" for Libya following the devastating floods that have claimed the lives of thousands in the

eastern part of the country. This funding is described as an "initial package" aimed at providing assistance to those most affected by the catastrophe. The UK is collaborating with local organizations on the ground to identify urgent needs, including shelter, healthcare, and sanitation. Additionally, the UK expresses readiness to offer further support if necessary.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his shock at the scale of the loss and devastation caused by the floods in Libya. He emphasized the UK's commitment to providing immediate assistance to the Libyan people and mentioned initial funding to support international relief efforts.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly reiterated the UK's commitment to supporting Libya in the wake of the devastating floods. The announced funding, which is "worth up to £1 million," is intended to provide life-saving assistance to those severely affected by the floods, including women, children, and displaced individuals.

The Foreign Office stated that Middle East minister Lord Ahmad had already spoken with the head of Libya's Presidential Council, Dr. Mohamed Menfi, to express condolences and reaffirm Britain's commitment to assisting Libya in the aftermath of this tragedy.

The death toll from the flooding, primarily affecting the coastal city of Derna and other parts of eastern Libya, has surpassed 5,000 and is expected to rise further. The situation remains challenging, with authorities struggling to provide support to the affected area, where thousands are still missing, and tens of thousands have been left homeless.

Aid workers who managed to reach the city, which became isolated when flash floods washed away most access roads, reported widespread devastation in the center. Search and rescue teams have been tirelessly combing through shattered apartment buildings in search of bodies.

Local health officials anticipate that the number of casualties will continue to rise as search and rescue operations retrieve bodies from streets, buildings, and the sea. In response to the crisis, Libya's neighboring countries, including Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia, along with Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, have dispatched rescue teams and humanitarian aid.

US President Joe Biden has also announced emergency funds to support relief organizations and has pledged to coordinate with Libyan authorities and the UN to provide additional assistance. Photo by Syed Wali Peeran, Wikimedia commons.