Human Rights Watch issued Tuesday a report documenting the deaths of several civilians and extensive damage to homes and property as a result of intense clashes between armed groups in the capital, Tripoli.
The report highlighted the failure of “armed groups and quasi-governmental forces” to protect civilians, noting that the fighting erupted following the mysterious killing of an armed group leader, which triggered a surge in violence in densely populated residential areas.
The report also documented the use of live ammunition to disperse anti-government protesters, resulting in fatalities and injuries among demonstrators.
Human Rights Watch called on judicial authorities to urgently investigate the violations and abuses, ensure safe passage for civilians fleeing conflict zones, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.
It stressed the importance of adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. It also called for the disclosure of the fate of detainees and the guarantee of their humane treatment.
