Libyans hail the United Nations' move aimed at ending the violence in their country.
The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday (August 27th) unanimously approved a resolution on Libya that demanded an immediate ceasefire by militias and called for sanctions against those responsible for the bloodshed.
The resolution issued by the 15-member body also noted the "growing presence of al-Qaeda linked terrorists groups and individuals operating in Libya" and the "threat posed by "unsecured arms and ammunition in Libya and their proliferation".
The step by the Security Council "restores hope in the hearts of Libyans", said Nizal al-Mansouri, a 24-year-old student at Benghazi University's Faculty of Engineering.
"The Security Council resolution came amid escalating violence and brought joy to Libyans, for they sense security and salvation," agreed Zidane Massoud, a local lawyer.
The Benghazi man said it was possible for "Libya to once again be safe and quiet as it used to be."
Salem Alakori, a geography teacher in Benghazi, was equally pleased by news of the UN resolution but appealed for its quick implementation, saying: "We want to return to life again. We want to go to work, but fear for our lives. We have become afraid of everything."
"Extremists come from outside Libya," he pointed out. "Today, Jalaa hospital received 13 bodies of Ansar al-Sharia members, including foreigners."
"It is a disaster. The ones killing Libyans are non-Libyans," the teacher added.
Al-Marj resident Mohamed Ibrahim said: "I hope that the UN resolution is carried out as soon as possible to stop the mass destruction. Misrata's militia entered the library of the Islamic Dawa, an old library with more than 1,200 ancient manuscripts. They burned it and vandalised it."
But so long as militias are fighting each other, the outlook for Libya is bleak, according to Ashraf Thilthi, a writer in Tripoli.
"Unfortunately, no 'dignity' and no 'dawn.' If you don't believe it, ask the residents of the airport road and Qasr Ben Ghashir," he said.
© Magharebia.com 2014
