Derna Protests Erupt After Devastating Floods in Libya

In Derna, Libya, hundreds of protesters gathered in the wake of a devastating flood disaster that claimed thousands of lives. They demanded accountability from Libyan authorities, including the resignation of key figures. Demonstrators called for national unity in a politically divided Libya and questioned the government’s ability to handle the crisis. They also set fire to the house of Derna’s mayor. Libya has been divided into east and west since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, complicating disaster response efforts. Over 11,300 lives were lost in the floods, with over 10,000 missing and around 38,640 people left homeless, primarily in Derna.