All parties need to meet their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law and ensure the protection of civilians in Derna, easter Libya, from attack and their freedom of movement, including facilitating the safe exit of those wishing to leave the city, the UNSMIL humanitarian coordinator Maria Ribeiro said Thursday.

Ribeiro added in statement urging for humanitarian access to Derna that all parties must also ensure the safety and sanctity of health infrastructure and health workers.

“I call on all parties to immediately allow safe and unfettered access to Derna for humanitarian actors and urgently needed humanitarian goods,” Ribeiro added.

“We need to be able to assist people in need without delay to prevent further loss of life." She indicated.

The statement said that the continued encirclement of Derna and the escalation of conflict is having a devastating impact on civilians who fear for their lives.

"Reports refer to at least one child killed and hundreds of families who have fled their homes." The statement published on the UNSMIL website explained.