LOC12:23
09:23 GMT
GENEVA, Oct 2 (KUAN) -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
announced on Sunday that one of its teams could finally enter the libyan city
Sirte late on Saturday -- which has been under siege for weeks.
"The team included a doctor and crossed in overland from Misrata. It
reached Ibn Sina hospital, inside Sirte, and delivered urgently needed
surgical material to treat about 200 wounded people, including dressing kits,
body bags, and 400 litres of fuel to run the hospital's generator", said the
ICRC in a press release.
"The conditions under which medical personnel have had to work over the
past weeks have been extremely difficult," said Hichem Khadraoui, who headed
the operation. "The hospital is facing a huge influx of patients, medical
supplies are running out and there is a desperate need for oxygen. On top of
that, the water reservoir has been damaged."
Due to the volatile security situation, the team could not stay long enough
to fully assess the humanitarian needs of civilians. That said, the ICRC team
has been able to meet with representatives of civil society, who reported dire
needs in terms of drinking water, food supplies - in particular baby food -
and hygiene items. "For the ICRC, it is of utmost importance to be able to
assist all people affected by the conflict - civilians and war wounded
fighters alike. We are committed to return to Sirte as soon as possible," said
Mr Khadraoui.
The ICRC reminds all parties to the conflict of their obligation under
international humanitarian law to take all possible measures of precaution in
order to spare civilian lives and allow safe access for medical personnel.
(end)
ta.rk
KUNA 021223 Oct 11NNNN