“The General Command is committed to stopping fighting so long as the other parties abide by it,” LNA said in a statement. “Given the already dire humanitarian situation in Libya and the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary-General calls on the parties to join forces to address the threat and to ensure unhindered access of humanitarian aid throughout the country,” a statement issued by a UN spokesperson said. According to media sources, Libya has not reported any cases of the coronavirus that has infected 306,892 persons and killed more than 13,000 worldwide since last December. A truce between the warring sides may make it easier for humanitarian workers to help avert a possible outbreak in the North African nation. Mr. Guterres also hoped the humanitarian pause will be translated into a lasting ceasefire.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 22, 2020 03:22 UTC