Title: Migrants Abandoned in Tunisian Desert Struggle to Survive as Libya Rescues Hundreds
Introduction
In a distressing turn of events, hundreds of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa are being abandoned in the Tunisian desert by Tunisian security forces, only to be rescued by Libyan border guards. These migrants, exhausted and on the brink of collapse, are facing extreme heat and inhospitable conditions. This article sheds light on the plight of these migrants and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
The Abandonment Crisis
According to Libyan border guards and the migrants themselves, hundreds of migrants are arriving daily in Libya after being left stranded in the desert borderland by Tunisian authorities. The migrants, already fatigued from their arduous journey, face temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) upon reaching Libya.
The Expulsion from Tunisia
The expulsion of black Africans from Tunisia began in early July, following racial tensions that arose after the death of a Tunisian man in a clash between locals and migrants. Human Rights Watch reported that up to 1,200 black Africans were forcibly transferred by Tunisian security forces to the country’s desert border regions with Libya and Algeria. The Tunisian Red Crescent provided shelter to some migrants, but hundreds remained stuck in makeshift camps with dire living conditions.
The Journey to Libya
Many migrants shared their harrowing stories of how they ended up in Libya. Haitham Yahiya, a Sudanese migrant, revealed that he had worked in Tunisia’s construction sector for a year after clandestinely entering the country through Niger and Algeria. He was caught by authorities and forcibly transported to Libya. The proximity of Tunisia to the Italian island of Lampedusa makes it a major gateway for migrants attempting dangerous sea voyages to Europe.
Rescue Efforts by Libyan Border Guards
Libyan border guards stationed near Al-Assah have been rescuing these stranded migrants. Despite claims from Tunisia that Libya is fabricating the situation, Ali Wali, Battalion 19 spokesman, emphasized the reality of the influx. The patrol area covers 15 kilometers around Al-Assah, and on any given day, they encounter hundreds of irregular migrants. The United Nations has called for urgent humanitarian assistance to address the unfolding tragedy faced by these migrants.
The Urgent Need for Assistance
The migrants stranded in the desert face extreme heat, lack of shelter, food, and water. The UN has previously denounced the violence against migrants detained in Libya’s camps. However, the government of Tripoli has rejected the resettlement of migrants arriving from Tunisia. Urgent and humane solutions are needed to address this crisis and provide life-saving assistance to these vulnerable individuals.
Survivors and Tragic Losses
While some migrants have been fortunate enough to be rescued by Libyan border guards, others have not been as lucky. Alexander Unche Okole from Nigeria shared his ordeal of walking for two days without food or water before being rescued by Libyans. However, the harsh conditions have claimed lives, with officers recovering several bodies, including a woman and her baby. Humanitarian groups in Libya have reported a death toll of at least 17 over the past three weeks.
Conclusion
The abandonment of migrants in the Tunisian desert and their subsequent rescue by Libyan border guards highlights the urgent need for international attention and assistance. These vulnerable individuals face extreme heat, lack of resources, and inhospitable conditions. It is crucial for humanitarian organizations and governments to come together to provide immediate relief and find sustainable solutions to prevent further loss of life in this ongoing crisis.