Fighting around Tripoli and insecurity in Libya have triggered food price hikes, prompting the United Nations and its humanitarian partners to renew appeals for a ceasefire, a UN spokesman said yesterday.

“Our humanitarian colleagues warn that a cessation of hostilities is urgently required in the country,” said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. “Ongoing insecurity and fighting around Tripoli are continuing to deepen civilian suffering.”

Half of the assessed cities reported food shortages and 86 percent reported food price hikes, Dujarric said. On average, a recent assessment showed the prices of food items increased by 27 percent, while those of hygiene items have gone up by 12%.