International envoys are calling for an immediate ceasefire in Libya after at least 38 people died in clashes between troops loyal to the government and Islamist fighters.

The violence took place in the eastern city of Benghazi.

There was also shelling near the capital Tripoli at the international airport which is controlled by militias from the western city of Zintan.

More Islamist-leaning brigades are trying to oust them from their base there.

Since the clashes erupted a fortnight ago more than 150 people are said to have died most of them civilians.

The US and Turkey have evacuated their embassies and France and Germany have joined the US and the UK in advising their nationals to leave Libya immediately.

Since 2011 Libya’s government has been unable to disarm the numerous militias which took part in the ousting of dictator Muammar Gaddafi.