16 Demonstrators Slain by Yemeni Security Forces, Many More Wounded

Today was the bloodiest day in the deteriorating situation in Yemen as a massive protest was broken up by gunfire in the city of Sanaa.  Government security forces, snipers, plain-clothes police officers, and government supporters opened fire and attacked protesters as they demonstrated, demanding that President Ali Abdullah Saleh step down.  Sixteen were killed and over 200 were wounded; there are reports that 25 are in critical condition.

Saleh has been in neighboring Saudi Arabia since being wounded in a rocket attack on June 3rd.  Saleh recently granted his vice-president the authority to negotiate in a peace deal being conducted by various members of the Arab world and backed by the United States, who has been an important partner with the Yemeni government in their efforts to stamp out an al Qaida affiliate in the south. 

Demonstrations took place in other Yemeni cities, none facing anything like the one in Sanaa.  Also on Sunday, the government forces shelled a district of Sanaa occupied by Sheik Sadeq al-Ahmar, ruler of Yemen's most powerful tribal confederation, the Hashid.  For many years, al-Ahmar's family were members of the ruling party, but he has since resigned and serves as one of the most prominant figures calling for Saleh's resignation.  Al-Ahmar reportedly told his fighters not to return fire, not wanting Saleh to use that as an excuse to cling to power.

United Nations News for Libya and Palestine

The United Nations voted to recognize the National Transitional Council as the legitimate government of Libya.  The NTC has control of a majority of the country after driving long time dictator Col. Moammar Gadhafi from the capital of Tripoli.  A representative from the NTC will arrive in New York City when the UN meets next week.

Furthermore, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority has announced that he will apply for full UN membership at next week's meeting of the full General Assembly.  Palestine currently has only "observer" status in the United Nations. 

According to the BBC:
"The Palestinian leader said he wanted recognition as a state within 1967 borders.  This includes the West Bank - including East Jerusalem - and the Gaza Strip.  All of these areas were occupied by Israel in 1967.  Israel withdrew its troops from Gaza in 2005, but is still in control of its airspace and coastline."

President Abbas said that he was dissapointed with the lack of progress occurring in negotiations with Israel.  Furthermore, Abbas stated that more than 126 world states have recognized Palestine's sovereignty.

Israel has promised to fight the vote in the General Assembly and has threatened retaliation if Palestine is recognized as a sovereign state by the United Nations.  The United States of America said that it would use its Security Council veto to kill the vote.

Iran Announces Nuclear Power

Iran has announced today that it has a nuclear power facility that has begun operations today, producing electricity.  This has come under condemnation by the UN, who suspects Iran of pursuing nuclear weapon capabilities.

Rebels Give Gadhafi Family One Week To Surrender; Gadhafi Family Split

The National Transitional Council has issued an ultimatum to the Gadhafi family, telling them that they have one week to surrender. The military arm of the National Transitional Council has surrounded the town of Bani Walid, which is considered the last holdout of support for Gadhafi.  There are anti-Gadhafi forces also encircling his home town of Sirte.  An advisor still loyal to the leader insisted that he was still in Libya and well defended, but he was not sure where exactly Gadhafi was.

The Gadhaffi family is far from unified in all this. Saadi Gadhafi, son of Col. Moammar Gadhafi, has been working to negotiate a cease-fire between his father's forces and the National Transitional Council.  He expressed anger to CNN over comments made by his brother Saif al-Islam over the radio that halted negotiations.

The National Transitional Council also announced that it would be moving its headquarters from Benghazi in the east to Libya's capital Tripoli in the west.  NTC forces also have been raiding abandoned army bases and apprehending the equipment left there by Gadhafi's defeated army.  The NTC is also beginning to restore Libya's oil production.

CNN also reports that Cuba has withdrawn its ambassador from Libya, saying that it does not recognize the National Transitional Council as the legitimate government of Libya.

Documents Found in Tripoli Linking CIA to Libyan Intelligence.

In a basement of Libya's External Intelligence Agency, many documents were discovered establishing a link between the American Central Intelligence Agency and the Libyan government.  According to the documents, the United States and the United Kingdom's intelligence agency MI6 would export terror suspects to Libya, where they would be interrogated outside of the anti-torture laws in place in the US and UK.  The validity of these documents has not been confirmed, but the CIA has not been quick to deny them, either.

Libyan Rebels Seize Capital Tripoli

In Libya, rebels stormed the capital of Tripoli.  Much of the city was secured over the course of the evening, but fighting continued around Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's compound throughout throughout the night.  There were also reports of renewed battle around the city of Zawiya, west of Tripoli.

During this operation, NATO stepped up its air presence in enforcing the no-fly-zone that has been in effect for several months.  The government forces reportedly fired three missiles at Misrata, controlled by the rebels.  NATO reported no casualties or damage, but condemned these strikes as a "threat to innocent people."

NATO and US advisors are concerned that Gadhafi's soldiers, including foreign mercenaries, may attempt to massacre civilians in the coming days.  There are also worries of an insurgency.

Two of Gadhafi's sons were reportedly captured, but there are conflicting reports of them being seen free at a Tripoli hotel.  As for Moammar Gadhafi himself, there is no sign.  Theories of his whereabouts include neighboring Chad or Algeria, the southern Libyan desert, or even some safehouse in Tripoli.

As the rebels consolidated their forces in Tripoli, mindful of snipers on rooftops, others pushed north to the coast, attempting to secure the highway leading to neighboring Tunisia.  There is a holdout of loyalist forces holding position along the coast.

More Deaths in Syria Despite Promises from Assad

As demonstrators took to the streets in Syria, they once more found themselves under fire from government security forces.  International human rights monitors reported at least twenty died.  This renewed violence comes as international calls for President Assad's resignation mount.  Friday is typically a day of increased protests in the Arab world, which occur following morning prayers. 

Libyan Opposition Advances on Capital Tripoli

After seizing a key oil refinery, Libya’s opposition forces have begun to advance on Tripoli.  The oil refinery was the last remaining source of fuel for Col. Gadhafi’s forces.  After securing the site, the rebels began their march on the capital.  Heavy gunfire is currently being exchanged in the outskirts of the city.  With the rebels on all sides and NATO enforcing a no-fly-zone, it looks as if Gadhafi has no way out.

US Threatens Syria With Sanctions; Demands Pres. Assad Step Down

The United States of America has issued calls for Syria's President Assad to step down.  The US has threatened very harsh sanctions including the freezing of all Syrian assets under US control and forbidding any American citizens from having business with Syria.

President Assad Says Army Attacks on Syrian Civilians Have Ceased

An official at the United Nations said that Syria's President Assad has promised UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon that the assault on Syrian civilians by government security forces has been halted.  Hundreds of unarmed, peaceful protesters have been arrested and/or shot by police and military forces since February, following the overthrow of the Tunisian and Egyptian regimes.

8/16/11 Gadhafi Fires SCUD Missile, Rebels Prepare to Take Tripoli

Over the course of the summer, a bloody stalemate has persisted in Libya between government forces loyal to leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi and rebel forces.  The rebels have recently taken several more cities on all sides of the capital Tripoli, which remains Gadhafi's stronghold.  In aftermath of the loss of these cities, Gadhafi's government launched a SCUD missile at the rebel forces.  NATO said that they were aware of the missile and its launch, but that it was not considered a threat.  The United States reported that it landed without effect in the desert.

According to CNN, intense street-to-street fighting is occurring in the key city of Zawiya.  Zawiya lies only a short distance to the west of Tripoli.  Col. Ahmed Banni, a military spokesman for the National Transitional Council (the official name of the revolutionary forces) said that he expected to be able to march on Tripoli by the end of the month.  Zawiya is situated on a major supply route from Tripoli to the neighboring country of Tunisia.

The BBC reports that NATO no longer believes Ghadafi's forces capable of launching "coherent operations."  This would be of vital importance to the National Provisional Council, who has had trouble in the past holding onto significant gains.

The National Provisional Council has already been recognized as the legitimate government of Libya by a number of nations.

sources:

Libya conflict: Rebels fight for control of Zawiya 

         http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14550840

 Rebels in Libya eyeing Tripoli

        http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/08/16/libya.war/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

Belgium Now 385 Days Without Functioning Government

Belgium has  now gone 385 days without a functioning government.  The small European country is divided between a slight Dutch-speaking Flemish majority (6.5 million) in the North and a French speaking minority (4 million) lives in the south.  When the New Flemish Alliance took power in elections last year, their primary aim was to split the country into two independent states.  The problem arises with the capital, Brussels.

Brussels is French speaking, but if Belgium was divided, it would end up in the Flemish speaking state.  Brussels is also the capital of the European Union, causing profound ramifications.

The people of Belgium are fed up with the limbo that their country is in.  Earlier this year, when Belgium overtook Iraq for the title of "country without the longest functioning government," the people took to the streets and had a sort of street party with live music, DJs, and dancing (including nude dancing, in the winter, as a political message).

Other political messages that day including the distribution of French fries in the Flemish north and Dutch beer in the French speaking south.

Talks Begin In Bahrain Between Government And Opposition

The minority Sunni-led government of the Bahrain has begun talks with the majority Shia opposition.  These talks come after months of anti-government protests that faced violent crackdown, so brutal, in fact, that doctors had been beaten and arrested for aiding wounded demonstrators.

The opening of the discussions were broadcasted on state television.  Says the BBC,

"Parliamentary speaker Khalifa Dhahrani said the dialogue would have "no preconditions and no ceiling" on the demands that could be raised by delegates.

The aim was to draw up "common principles for the relaunch of the political reform process," he said.
Opposition delegates from al-Wifaq have promised not to pull their punches at the talks.

"Al-Wifaq will not abandon the demands of the people, which are; an elected government, a fair electoral law and an elected parliament with full powers," said al-Wifaq leader Sheikh Ali Salman, in an address to supporters on Friday."

The major tension behind the protests comes from the fact that the majority of the country practices Shia Islam, but the Sunni minority controls the government.  The government of Saudi Arabia had sent "peacekeepers" to help put down the protestors.  The United States of America has a vested interest in a stable Bahrain: the tiny country is home to the US Navy's 5th Fleet.

Source: BBC World News
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-13999741

Ghadafi Threatens Europe; Clinton Responds

Libyan leader Colonel Moammar Ghadafi has threatened to "bring the fight to Europe."  He said that Libya would target civilian and commercial assets unless NATO ceased it's no-fly-zone campaign that paralyzes his military.  This announcement came after France confirmed that it was supplying weapons to the rebel forces and days after the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Gadhafi, his son Saif, and intelligence chief Abdullah al-Sanousii for crimes against humanity, including ordering government soldiers to fire on civilian protesters earlier this year, before the revolution began in earnest.

American Secretary of State Hillary Clinton replied to Gadhafi, saying "Gaddafi should put the well-being and the interests of his own people first and he should step down from power."

Morroco Approves Constitutional Reform

The people of Morocco have overwhelmingly voted to support constitutional reforms designed by King Mohammed VI.  Says the BCC: "The reforms grant executive powers to a prime minister, but the king is retained as head of the military, religious authorities and judiciary."  These reforms appear to make Morocco more like other constitutional monarchies, while still retaining a lot of power for their king.  The turn out for the vote was close to 73%.  The constitutional referendum was the first of its kind during the king's twelve years in power.  King Mohammed described the reforms as a "decisive historic transition."  These reforms come in response to the unrest that has been sweeping the region as part of the so-called "Arab Spring."  This movement has toppled the governments of Tunisia and Egypt and is led to ongoing riots in Syria and open rebellion in Libya.

Russia Creates Arctic Specialist Army Brigades

Russia is taking steps to defend its interests in the Arctic with the creation of two army brigades specializing in arctic warfare.  Russia desires newly accessible oil reserves revieled by rapidly thinning ice.  As global temperatures continue to rise and arctic ice diminishes, Russia may take stronger steps to maintain their claim on these resources.

Minor Violence in Northern Ireland on Friday; Tension as Protestant Celebration Draws Near

There was violence in the streets of Belfast on Friday.  The city in Northern Ireland had seen riots two weeks ago spread over two days.  Authorities believe that Friday's incident was not organized by the perpetrators.  Six police officers were injured by thrown objects and seven civilians were arrested.

Two weeks ago, members of the loyalist paramilitary force called the Ulster Volunteer Force orchestrated a string of violence targetting Catholics in the community, who struck back collectively.  The tension in Belfast is blamed on the approach of the Twelfth of July, Orangemen's Day.  It is an annual Protestant celebration of England's Glorious Revolution when Protestant King Willian of Orange defeated King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.  The battle was a turning point in the revolution and wasd fought near Drogheda, Ireland.

Riots on Two Continents; France Gives Arms to Libyan Rebels

Violence broke out on Tuesday night and continued into Wednesday at Egypt's Tahrir Square, the iconic staging place for the nation's revolution earlier this year.  Crowds called for the implementation of reforms promised by the military regime that replaced President Hosnai Mubarak after nearly thirty years of his rule.  The crowd also demanded that police officials face justice for crimes committed against the protesters during the revolution.  Riot police responded with tear gas, to which demonstrators returned stones and firebombs.

--------

In Greece, a country beset by great economic woe, riots have rocked the capital city of Athens.  This latest round of rioting was launched in response to austerity legislation being considered by the legislature.  This legislation, consisting of tax raises and cuts to public spending, was endorsed by the European Union.  Greece is a member of the European Economic Community, and the collapse of their economy is on the verge of defaulting on her loans) could seriously affect the rest of the European Union.  This legislation opens up Greece to be eligible for a new round of bail-out money.

These cuts are extraordinarily unpopular, with one CNN commentator suggesting a percentage as high as 80%.  The package passed late Wednesday, feeding even more spirit to the rioters.

-------

In shocking news, France has begun to provide arms and munitions to the Libyan rebels.  The arms included heavy weapons, such as anti-tank missiles and rocket launchers.  Most remarkable is the fact that France, who had been the most vocal supporter of the NATO-led no-fly-zone, neglected to inform her NATO allies of the arms deliveries.

"We began by dropping humanitarian aid: food, water and medical supplies.  During the operation, the situation for the civilians on the ground worsened. We dropped arms and means of self-defence, mainly ammunition," said Col Thierry Burkhard.

Qatar, a partner in the no-fly-zone coalition, has already been providing the Libyan rebels with arms via the rebel controlled port of Benghazi.  There are already French, Italian, and possibly British military advisers in the same city.

There are reports that the French were able to smuggle in a small number of light tanks from the Tunisian border.

ICC: Viagra May Have Been Used by Libyan Army to Conduct Mass Rape

Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Luis Moreno-Ocampo is investigating the Libyan army and government on allegations that they organized a "campaign of mass rape" against women supporting the rebels.  The opposition forces have claimed to found Viaga and Viagra-like medication in army barracks that they've seized from the government.  If true, Moreno-Ocampo theorizes that this medication was weaponized and used in a series of orchestrated mass-rapes and gang-rapes coordinated by an as-of-yet unknown figure high up in the army or government.  He said the purpose of his investigation is to find this coordinator and bring him to justice for war-crimes. "We know [the mass rape] happened, the question is who.  Who ordered it?"


Speaking about the medications found at the army bases, Moreno-Ocampo had this to say:
"It's like a machete.  Viagra... it's a tool of massive rape."

Libyan Regime Investigated for War Crimes by International Criminal Court

 The government of Libyan leader Col. Moammar Gadhafi has been accused of war crimes by the International Criminal Court.  Evidence has surfaced that one of his sons was recruiting mercenaries a full month before the popular uprising broke out, implying that the regime was preparing for violence.  There is also evidence that Minister of Intelligence was coordinating the killing of civilians.

International Criminal Court reports that they have been receiving telephone calls from members of the Gadhafi regime expressing a willingness to cooperate with any investigation.

While it is unprecedented that a person be charged with war crimes during an ongoing conflict, the International Criminal Court believes that this is the only way to prevent Gadhafi from committing more atrocities against the Libyan people.

Hiatus Coming

Hello loyal readers,

Author of the blog here, I just wanted to apologize for the brief span of no updates.  It was finals week for me at my university and was distracted with exams, papers, and the like.  After that, I was busy moving back home for the summer.

It saddens me to say, but there will be another hiatus coming in a week or so that will span until early June.  After that, however, I will try to resume the normal once a day update schedule.  Thank you for your patience.

In other news: the American Republican Party primary race is starting to get populated with candidates: thus far the big names include: Donald Trump, obscenely wealthy showman who shows signs of intense egotism; Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House and thrice-divorcee (odd for a man running for a party that claims to stand for "family values"); and Ron Paul, a former-Libertarian candidate who's primary concern is the economy.  It certainly is heating up, dear readers. 

As you can probably tell by the tone of the last paragraph, I am less capable of keeping bias out of domestic political news reporting than I am of international events, which is why the latter will always remain the focus of this blog.

Libya Update For Early May

A group from the Libyan opposition, the National Provisional Council will be meeting at the White House National Defense Secretary.

In the viciously contested port city of Misrata, the rebels have made further in roads, but the battle there is far from decided.

Days ago, an airstrike killed several members of Gadhafi's family, including the leader's youngest adult son, Saif.  Colonel Moammar Gadhafi appeared on Libyan State television, showing his people that he was still alive and unscathed from the NATO airstrike.

Pres. Obama Announces the Death of Osama Bin Laden

American President Barak Obama announced at 11:35 EST that Osama bin Laden, founder and leader of the terrorist network Al Qaeda was killed in Pakistan.

He said that in August the CIA approached him and told him that they may have had a credible lead as to his location in Pakistan, a compound deep in the nation.  Last week, Obama authorized a military operation.  A small team of Americans infiltrated the compound, taking care to avoid civilians.  The team took no casualties and killed bin Laden in a firefight.  Two Al Qaeda couriers were also killed, along with one of bin Laden's adult sons.  A woman who was being used as a human shield by Al Qaeda was also shot and killed.   The special forces team retrieved bin Laden's body for DNA testing.

Obama went on to say that this will not mark the end of the struggle against terrorism and that the United States will remain vigilant.  He echoed his predecessor Geroge W. Bush's words that the United States is not at war against Islam.  He commented that bin Laden was a "mass murderer" of Muslims all over the world and in the United States.

Obama said that this was a cooperative counter-terrorism operation with Pakistan and confirmed our continued cooperation with him.  He thanked the American intelligence and counter-terrorism officers for their efforts, as well as United States military servicemen who sacrificed so much to pave the way for this operation.

Ivory Coast to Investiages Gbagbo

After months of intense violence between factions supporting sitting-president Gbagbo and internationally recognized election winner Alassane Ouattara, president Gbagbo was arrested in early April.  Mr. Ouattara announced this week that his administration, which has officially taken power, is beginning to open formal investigations against Mr. Gbagbo for crimes and abuses of power.

Some fighting still continues as forces loyal to President Ouattara mop up pockets of resistance formed by militias still loyal to Mr. Gbagbo.

Nearly 500 Detainees Escape From Afghanni Prison

Four hundred seventy Taliban insurgents who had been captured in Afghanistan escaped from a prison in Kandahar province.  They made their escape via a tunnel dug out of a prison cell.  Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban, said that the tunnel was 1,180ft (360m) long and took over five months to dig.  The escape took place over night and friendly  vehicles awaited the escapees at the tunnel's exit.

According to the BBC, this is the second major prison break in  Kandahar in three years.  "In June 2008 a suicide bomber blew open the Kandahar prison gates and destroyed a nearby checkpoint, freeing about 900 prisoners, many of them suspected insurgents."
-BBC World News
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-south-asia-13184920

 

Several Hunderd Dead in Nigerian Post-Election Violence

A human-rights group has announced that over five hundred have been left dead in the fighting that has broken out over election results in Nigeria.  Nigeria is split between a predominately Christian south and predominately Muslim north.  When sitting president Goodluck Johnathon, from a southern Christian tribe, defeated the northern Muslim candidate Muhammadu Buhari, many in the north refuted the election with cries of fraud and corruption.  Intense riots broke out throughout the north and there were reprisals from southern Christians as well.

Doctors Tortured in Bahrain; Violence Continues in Syria

 Syrian security forces have continued use live fire on protesters.  Demonstrations have escalated over the following days despite President Assad ending the state of emergency that the country had been operating under for the past several decades.  This act was expected to have dampened the protests, but it seemed to have not been enough of a concession on the government's part.

A civil rights group is alleging that the government of Bahrain is torturing doctors and nurses to get information about protesters who received medical treatment.

Escalating Foreign Involvement in Libya; Seige of Misrata Continues

NATO has begun a new round of air strikes on the Libyan capitol of Tripoli.  The latest strikes are targeting buildings supporting the government's military operations: ammo supply dumps and command and control centers.

United States Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has announced that the United States will begin to use predator drones, a type of unmanned aerial strike vehicle, in Libya.  They will add more versatility to the NATO peacekeeping mission.

Meanwhile, the battle for Misrata grinds on.  The BBC reports that seven died today , putting the death toll above 1,000 in that city alone.  The opposition forces claim that the Libyan government is using internationally-banned clusterbombs to target both military and civilian targets.  Snipers target opposition members and city residents indiscriminately.

Says the BBC:
"Government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim has said that if foreign troops enter Misrata the government would "unleash hell".

"We will be a ball of fire. We will make it 10 times as bad as Iraq," he said, saying the government was arming people in preparation.

Hundreds of foreign workers, Libyans and injured people are being evacuated from Misrata by sea to the rebel-held city of Benghazi in the east."

source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13166441

United States Hopes to Provide Aid to Libyan Opposition

The United States hopes to send $25 million in non-lethal commodities and services in efforts to protect civilians in Libya, said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.  The US press secretary said that this aid would primarily consist of radios, body armor, and other devices that would help facilitate communication between the opposition and NATO.

Funding for this plan is pending Congressional approval.

State of Emergency Lifted in Syria

Syria has lifted the state of emergency that the country has been operating under since 1963.  This was one of the demands of the demonstrators.

There have been an estimated 200 dead since the beginning of the protests weeks ago.  Security forces in the third largest city Homs used live ammunition and tear gas to disprse 5,000 demonstrators who were occupying Clock Square yesterday.   

Britain, France to Send Military Advisers to Misrata

The UK announced that is deploying 10 elite military advisers to Libya and that they would be joined by a similar number from France.  These advisers would help train opposition fighters and try to shape the rebels into a coherent fighting force.  This comes after the Arab nation Qatar delivers some preliminary arms shipments to the opposition.  Britain was partially prompted to make this move after aid ships in the port area of Misrata came under threat from Libyan government artillery

This could mark the beginning of an increase in foreign involvement in the Libyan civil war.

Leaders of US, France, and UK Officially Call For Gadhafi's Removal From Power

In a statement authored by American President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozi, and British Prime Minister David Cameron,  the three western leaders outlined a course of action regarding Libya.  Most notable was a line stating that Col. Moammar Gadhafi must be removed from power.

Syrian Pres. Meets With Demonstrators; Possible Iran Connection to Syrian Gov.

The US State Department believes that Iran has been helping the Syrian government put down protests.  This claim was denied by both Iranian and Syrian governments.  The State Department says that Iran may have been helping Syria control crowds of demonstrators and using Facebook to track down the organizers of the demonstrations.

The President Bashar al-Assad of Syria met with protestors today.  There are reports saying that the meetings were positive, but these reports have not been confirmed.  The real test will come tomorrow.  Friday has traditionally been a day of increased protest activity.

Aid Ships Bound for Misrata, Libya Threatened

Aid ships bound for beseiged city of Misrata are feeling threatened by Libyan army's bombardment of the city's port.  The ships are carrying medical supplies and food.

Misrata has been the scene of constant fighting between Gadhafi loyalists and opposition forces.

President Obama Meets with the Emir of Qatar; Qatar to Arm the Opposition in Libya

American President Obama met today with the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar in the White House Oval Office.  Qatar is an important regional ally for the United States and was the first Arab nation to pledge support for the UN sponsored No-Fly Zone over Libya, contributing fighter planes.

 The Emir told CNN that his country will arm the rebels if they ask for it.  Qatar has already provided them with French-made anti-tank weaponry.  The opposition has already asked Qatar for weapons and military training.

Qatar has also recognized the opposition government as the legitimate government of Libya.  He also urged Gadhafi to think of his country first and find a solution that is best for his people.  He cited the examples of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali who stepped down from Tunisia's presidency earlier this year and left the country and of President Hosnai Mubarak of Egypt who also stepped down from power but remained in his country.

Opposition Rejects African Union Proposed Cease-Fire

Gadhafi did indeed accept the terms of a cease-fire yesterday, but that plan was rejected by the opposition.  The opposition told the African Union that they were willing to consider any other plans, but only if they lead to Gadhafi leaving power.

There is a military stalemate in Libya currently.  Rebels control Ajdabiya, but the government forces control the important oil center of Brega.  Neither side can advance much further.

Each side has its advantages and disadvantages.  While the government has superior arms, training, commanders, and numbers, their supply lines are extremely vulnerable to NATO air-strikes.  US commanders are wary that outside extremist forces could take advantage of a stalemate situation to sew even greater chaos.

Possible Cease Fire in Libya Looking Likely

A delegation from the African Union met with Moammar Gadhafi today.  The president of South Africa reports that Gadhafi has accepted the terms of a cease fire.  Further negotiation is to follow between the two sides with oversight by a third party.

The opposition remains skeptical of the agreement, however, as Gadhafi has broken multiple "cease-fires" in the past.

Meanwhile, fighting continues.
Pro-Gadhafi forces have shelled Misrata.  Opposition forces maintain that they control the city after fourteen days of fighting, a claim that is countered by the Libyan government.  The city is largely abandoned.  It is the country's third largest city at 300,000 people.

Rebels have retaken Ajdabiya in a the back and forth struggle over the city near the opposition stronghold of Benghazi.

Syria Grants Kurdish Minority Citizenship

 Yesterday, Syria's President Assad granted Syrian nationality to the Kurdish population living in the country.  Until then, the Kurdish minority, who make up roughly 10% of the total population, were denied citizenship.  They are heavily discriminated against by the Arab majority.

This move was prompted when Kurdish joined the protest movement sweeping the nation.  Before last week, they had not been taking part in the demonstrations.  Since taking part, the Kurdish have been very careful to not to appear to be a separate protest movement, but that they are part of one all-encompassing Syrian movement.

Talks of Ivory Coast's Incumbant Pres. Surrendering to Int. Recognized Pres.

On April 5th, reports came in that the Ivory Coast's incumbent president Laurent Gbagbo, who has been using military force to cling to power after November's disputed elections, was ready to begin talks to surrender power.  UN officials said that after days of talks with three generals, they were negotiating the surrender to the internationally recognized president, Alassane Ouattara.  Abidjan is apparently trying to obtain UN protection for his family and his own person.

The UN has a peace-keeping presence in the nation to protect civilians. 

Hundreds have been killed in a civil war since November, but forces loyal to Mr. Ouattara launched a sudden and overwhelming offensive offensive last week.  Their momentum slowed drastically in Abidjan, the nation's largest city and principal economic center.  In recent days, they were supported from the skies by UN and French helicopter gunships, which targeted Mr. Gbagbo's military.

Later in the day, however, Laurent Gbagbo "speaking by phone from his bunker, he said his military were only negotiating a truce and insisted he had won November's presidential election." (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12981942)

The BBC goes on to report:
"His remarks contrasted with a statement from his spokesman, Ahoua Don Mello, who told Reuters news agency there were "direct negotiations based on African Union recommendations which said Alassane Ouattara is president"."

Source: much of the content of this post was learned from the BBC
www.bbc.co.uk

Ivory Coast links from the BBC:

The announcement of Gbagbo's surrender:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/9448212.stm

Gbagbo's rebuttal:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12981942

Tentative Peace Offer From Gadhaffi to Rebels

A source told CNN today that Saif Gadhafi, son of the Col. Moammar Gadhafi who has ruled Libya for over 40 years, has offered replace his father as leader in a tentative peace offer to the rebels.  The opposition is expected to decline any arrangement that leaves a member of the Gadhafi family in the seat of power.  The regime says that it must be a slow transition, else the country will fall further into chaos.

Moammar Gadhafi refuses to "leave at the point of a gun" and wants to step down on his own terms.  He expressed desire to be remembered "fondly" by history.

Violence on Sunday in Yemen

4/3/11

Violence broke out between Yemeni security forces and anti-government demonstrators.  One person is confirmed dead and there are over 800 wounded.  Security forces used tear gas, but there are unconfirmed reports that they also opened fire on the opposition groups.  Each side blames the other for the outbreak of violence.

4/4/11

The death toll in Yemen is currently at 15 as violence continues into the second day.

New Protests in Egypt; Demonstrations Continue in Southwest Asia

Thousands of protesters have returned to Cairo's Tahrir Square, focal point of the Egyptian revolution.  They are primarily from the youth movement that started the initial revolution.  They are trying to restore energy to the reform movement.  They are demonstrating against a proposed law that would ban protests against the government.  They also want more of a voice in the reform making process, more of the old regime to resign, and for there to be less of an Islamist presence in the legislative committee.

In Jordon, there are efforts being taken to prevent clashes between protesters and police.  As many as 1,000 officer were deployed to the site of demonstrations.

Likewise, tensions between pro and anti-government demonstrators in Yemen are escalating.  Fears of a civil war are growing.  There are hundreds of thousands in each camp.  The military itself is divided, some high ranking elements have defected to the opposition.

Other protests occurred today in Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Bahrain.  There was violence against demonstrators in the latter two nations.

Violence in the Ivory Coast at an All Time High

With all of the action in the north of Africa and in southwestern Asia, I have not mentioned another ongoing violent conflict occurring in the world.  Disputed election results last November caused an outbreak of civil war in African country of the Ivory Coast.  Today this violence reached an all time high with an attack on the opposition leader's home by the internationally recognized president.'

Hundreds have died in the fighting since November.

Failed Cease-Fire Offer in Libya

 The Opposition offered a cease fire to Moammar Gadhafi.  Conditions would include Gadhafi withdrawing his troops and allowing freedom of expression.  The government rejected the cease fire, calling many of its provisions "silly."


Also, Gadhafi's top choice as UN ambassader defected from the regime.

Libyan Aid in Secret Negotiations with British Government

Saif Gadhafi (son of Libya's ruler Colonel Moammar Gadhafi) has sent one of his top aids to London to engage in secret talks with the government there.  The British paper The Guardian reports that this representative was told that Gadhafi would have to leave power and that he and his supporters would be held accountable for the government's actions against the Libyan people.

CIA Operations in Libya; Defection of Top Gadhafi Aid

According to Reuters and confirmed by an unnamed source in the United States government, several weeks ago President Obama signed a secret order authorizing covert help to the Libyan rebels.  These CIA operations were meant to help the United States reach a military and political understanding of the situation in Libya.

These revelations come amidst more gains by the government forces.  Today they seized Bin Jawad and Ras Lanuf from the opposition fighters.  Al-Brega is expected to fall soon.

On a lighter note for the anti-Gadhafi crowed, long time aid and Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa has defected from the Libyan government and arrived today in Britain.  His resignation caught the world by surprise, the Deputy Foreign Minster did not know about his absence until asked for comment by reporters. Moussa Koussa is currently in talks with the British Government.  He had been Intelligence Chief of Libya for fifteen years.

Promises From Syria's President; Protests Banned in Saudi Arabia

Syria's President Assad has promised to end the 50 year state of emergency rule in the face of widespread protests.  This comes after the resignation of the country's cabinet.  Demonstrators do not fully trust Assad to carry out his promises.

In Saudi Arabia, the fatwa is issuing a religious edict forbidding political protest, calling it "un-Islamic."

Another Momentum Shift in Libya

In Libya, Gadhafi's military has once again halted the opposition's drive into the west.  Clans loyal to Gadhafi have banded with the military to turn them back, retaking territory seized yesterday by the opposition.

A NATO general has said that elements of al Qaida and Hezbollah have joined parts of the opposition, a claim that was made early on by Gadhafi.  Leaders of the opposition flatly deny these reports.  Journalists on the ground similarly say that have seen no evidence of this.

In Washington D.C., there is talk by President Obama of arming the opposition fighters.

Rebels Continue Counter-Offensive

The opposition has begun a counteroffensive across Libya.  They have taken many of the key cities that had been seized from them by the government last week.  Such cities include Brega, Ras Lanuf, Ajdabiya, and are pushing closer to Gadhaffi's hometown of Sirte.

Obama Speaks on Libya; Comments by Rep. Senator Lindsey Graham

President Obama appeared on television this evening, outlining the reasons for military intervention in Libya.  He claimed that he stepped in to avoid the slaughter of Libyan civilians.

Obama went on to say that they have neutralized Gadhaffi's air defenses and have driven his forces from Benghazzi and Ajdabiya.  He asserted that the opposition is making a strong offensive west.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is to meet with members of the opposition in London over the following week.  She will be consulting with representatives of over 30 nations.  The subject of these talks will be on how to get ridof Gadhaffi and how to support a transitional Libya.

Obama also outlined what some in the news media are calling the "Obama doctrine."  He said that it was not America's job to intervene everywhere there was unrest or an authoritarian regime.  As a world leader, however, he insisted that there were certain situations when it was America's duty to intervene to prevent genocide and slaughter of civilians.  He said that otherwise, America would only intervene if there was a direct danger to the nation or a dire threat to national interests.






Lindsey Graham, a Republican Senator on the Armed Services Committee, said that he agreed with much of Obama's speech.  He only regrets that Obama did not intervene ealier, when "the opposition had Gadhaffi on the ropes."  He also thought that Obama should not rule out military overthrow of Gadhaffi.  He advocated helping rebuild Libya.  Graham also sharply criticized other Republicans who attacked Obama's intervention on the basis of cost.  He reminded them that nobody complained about the cost in Iraq "during our watch".

US Transfers Military Command in Libya to NATO Allies

NATO has agreed to take over command of the no-fly zone from the United States. All members of the alliance unanimously agreed to the transfer in leadership.  NATO will work with non-NATO partners in the coalition to protect civilians in Libya.

Second Arab Nation Joins UN No-Fly Zone Operation

United Arab Emirates has officially announced that in addition to providing humanitarian relief, it will provide twelve jet fighters to the no-fly zone military operations in Libya.  The U.A.E. joins Qatar on the list of Arab nations who are participating the military no-fly zone.

Violence in Syria, Israel/Palestine; Praise for Morocco

Unrest has continued to spread around the region.

There has been a lethal crackdown on protests in the south of Syria.  The government hopes to keep the unrest contained in the south.


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A bomb was detonated in Jerusalem near a bus station.  One person was killed and over fifty were wounded.  This was the most serious bomb attack in Israel in a number of years.  The Prime Minister of Palestine condemned the act, calling it disgraceful.  This attack comes as a result of growing violence between Israeli and Palestinian militant groups. Ten Palestinians were killed by Israeli troops over the weekend in response to increased rocket attacks from Gaza over the past few days.

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After meeting with the Moroccan foreign minister, Clinton praised Morocco, saying that it was in position to take leadership in the region.  The King, in an adress, promised reforms in the nation, including the creation of a Prime Minister and other meaningful reforms that would promote autonomy for the people..  These build on the king's earlier reforms increasing women's rights and allowing universal education.

Success of UN No-Fly Zone

According to the leaders of the UN peacekeeping operation,  the coalition now has total air superiority over Libya's coastal region and no longer hast to fear anti-aircraft fire.  The United States military is preparing to turn control of the operation over to another ally within the next few days.

Participants in the no-fly zone enforcement efforts include Great Britain, France, the United States, Italy, Denmark, Spain, Qatar, Canada, Norway, and Belgium.  France is targetting Gadhaffi's ground forces, including tanks, and the United States military has recommended that the rest of the coalition follow suit.

Amidst the violence, there have been peaceful protests in cities like Ajdabiya, supporting the opposition.

There are reports of food shortages in some cities like Misrata.  While the coalition can route Gadhaffi's forces from the air when they are out in the open, the government's forces are digging into the city, readying themselves for street-to-sreet, house-to-house fighting.

American Jet Downed in Libya; Developments in Egypt

An American F-15 fighter jet went down in eastern Libya due to a "technical malfunction."  The two pilots ejected.  One was recovered soon after by an MV-22 Osprey (special kind of aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing) launched from the USS Kearsarge and the other was rescued by members of the opposition, who looked after him until he too was recovered by the coalition military.

American military intelligence says that most of Libya's air defenses have been neutralized.

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Egypt's Interior Ministry caught fire today.  This building headquartered the inner workings of the old regime's police state.

Egypt's stock market is set to re-open on Wednesday.  This will hopefully restore a measure of stability to the nation.

Last weekend, large numbers of Egyptians turned out for a referendum and voted to implement constitutional reform.

Further Unrest in Southwest Asia

In Syria, hundreds have taken to the streets to protest the death of a demonstrator.

In Bahrain, protesters continue to demonstrate against the violence exacted against them by the police and army.  The king has stated that he has defeated a foreign sponsored uprising.  The regime also denies targeting doctors, many of whom were rounded up in nighttime raids.

In Yemen, three top generals have defected from the government to the opposition. President Saleh is currently in talks with one of these generals.  Many are hoping for a "bloodless coup."

There is talk of a "five point plan" that includes goals of protecting protesters, investigating violence and crimes against these protesters,  and the establishment of a timeline for the president stepping down.

Many are wary about the situation in this nation.  There are armed members of the opposition protecting the demonstrations and some fear that violence may break out between these armed factions and the government's soldiers.  Furthermore, one of the defecting generals has said that he will order his troops to defend the protesters.

UN Inteverntion in Libya: Day 3

 Pres. Obama says that Gadhafi "needs to go".  He says that US policy is broader than the UN mandate focusing only on protecting civilians.

This announcement comes three nights into the UN sponsored coalition strikes on Libya.

Last night included a missile attack on one building in Gadhafi's personal compound.  The coalition claims that Col. Gadhafi was not the target, but that the building had contained anti-air assets.

Hundreds of cruise missiles have been launched into Libya from American and British warships in the Mediterranean.  American command and control ships continue to organize the air superiority campaign.  Over 100 sorties have been flown over the skies of Libya: about sixty on Sunday and from seventy to eighty today.

Rebels have counterattacked, pushing out of Benghazi and to nearby Ajdhabia.  They attribute their success to airstrikes by French fighter jets on positions occupied by clusters of the Libyan government's war machines and soldiers.

There are reports of a small group of opposition forces flanking Gadhafi's forces in Ajdhabia, heading for the critical city of Brega.

The opposition also expressed concerned over sleeper cells of Gadhafi loyalists in cities.  Over 150 have been arrested in Benghazi

Some see Obama's calls for the removal of Gadhafi as lending a new legitimacy to the opposition forces, who share the same goal of regime change.  An overriding feeling coming from the opposition force sis that they do not want Gadhafi taken out by airstrike, instead wanting to remove him by their own hand.

Many are wary of the United States becoming involved militarily in a third state in the region.  Republicans and Democrats alike are calling for more transparency, wanting the president to be more clear on what is the specific military objective for the United States in Libya.

American Warships Begin Cruise Missile Strikes on Libya

President Obama has authorized force in support of the international coalition undertaking military action in Libya.  American warships in the Mediterranean has launched cruise missiles at as-of-yet unidentified strategic targets in Libya.

More information will follow.

Secretary of State Clinton on Libya

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton addressed the United States today after coming out of a security conference in PArs dealing with NATO and Arab League allies on the subject of Libya and UN Security Council Resolution 1973, just passed late this week, authorizing military action.

She said that French fighters are currently in the sky above Benghazi, and that "there will be other actions to follow."  Nicolas Sarkozi suggested that his warplanes may target Gadhafi government tanks later today.
 

Clinton said that the United States is working to support her NATO allies and many Arab states, including members of the Arab League, to protect civilians in Libya.  She said that the members of this team are willing to "do whatever is necessary" to protect them.

Clinton reiterated that the mission is not about regime change, but to protect civilians "from their own government" and open the way for humanitarian efforts.

When asked directly whether or not significant improvement could be made in Libya with Gadhaffi still in power, she avoided giving a direct answer.  "Taking into account countless permutations, there are many different outcomes.  I'm not gong to speculate."

She credited French President Nicolas Sarkozi for stepping up and taking leadership of the effort to get the Security Council resolution passed and taking the lead in the military action.

She also briefly touched on the violence in Bahrain.  She reminded her audience that the United States has enjoyed a decades long friendship with the Persian Gulf state and that she would like to see that friendship continue long into the future.  She said that the goal of their policy in Bahrain is to begin a "credible" negotiation process that addresses the legitimate concerns of the protesters.

UN Authorizes Emergency Action in Libya; Broken Cease-Fire

The United Nations Security Council has authorized use of force to protect civilians.  NATO forces are prepping their air forces to carry out this intervention.  French jets can reach Libya directly.  Italy has authorized US bases in their country to serve as staging points for Britain and other NATO allies.  Spain is offering air bases as launching points as well.  The United States is providing tactical targeting data.  The Arab League has signed onto the effort, providing logistics for the no-fly zone effort to halt Gadhaffi's military's airstrikes and to prevent Gadhaffi from flying in more mercenaries to supplement his ground forces.  Regional support is important for the Western powers.  The United States does not want military action in Libya to seem as a third American invasion of a Middle Eastern sovereign state.

The American president spoke today, calling on Libyan troops to pull back from several cities.  He delivered what sounded like an ultimatum: that the US is prepared to use military assets to force compliance with the UN resolution.  Obama went on to clarify that no matter the outcome, no American groundtoops would be deployed to Libya.  He also reiterated that this is a multilateral effort: Britain, France, and the Arab League would be the major players with the United States providing support.

"Left unchecked," Obama said, "we have reason to believe that Gadhaffi would commit atrocities against his people: thousands may die."

Obama has invited a bipartisan group of lawmakers to the situation room.  This could be preperation to get congress authorize military action.

There has been violence today in Libya, despite the promises of a cease fire.  The opposition had flat out refused to believe Gadhaffi's  promises.

 The opposition demands that the UN resolution be enforced immediately.  The would like for weapons to be supplied to them.  The rebels only have what they have managed to loot from the few arms depots they've raided over the past few weeks.


Fighting has broken out in Misrata, the third largest city.  There are widespread fires throughout the city and many deaths have occured today.

Opposition forces launched a counterattack on Ajdabiya, which had been taken by the government forces yesterday. The fighting was so fierce that it is said that medics were unable to retrieve those wounded for medical care.

It is unclear when the UN peacekeeping undertaking will begin, but it is speculated by some sources interviewed on CNN to take place within the next 24 hours.

Benghazi Remains as Sole Bastion for Opposition Forces

It seems as though the revolution in Libya is in its dusk. With overwhelming momentum, government forces have taken the oil city of Ajdabiya, their last obstacle in their path to Benghazi, which is the only remaining stronghold for the opposition.

Air strikes have already been initiated against the city, damaging the local airport.  The defenders see this as a grim prelude to the ground assault that is to come.

After driving the defenders from Ajdabiya, all that separates the government forces from Benghazi is a quick drive across the desert.

The UN Security Council is to back a resolution supporting military intervention in Libya.  The drafted resolution serves to provide action "to protect civilians and civilian-populated areas under threat of attack."  It also proposes the anticipated "no-fly zone," which would ground Gadhaffi's air-force. 

The United States, United Kingdom, and France have proposed this course of action.  The other two permanent members of the Security Council (who hold the power to veto and stop any resolution), Russia and China, are expected to abstain rather than veto.  The two often oppose the infringement of sovereignty.

If passed, action could be taken against Libya within hours.  British and French are forces are on standby and are awaiting orders and logistics are expected to be provided by regional Arab allies.  American planes are not expected to take part in the initial strikes.

If any action is to be taken, it must be taken quickly if there is any hope of it impacting the turnout of revolution.  Colonel Gadhaffi has issued an ultimatum to the defenders of Benghazi: anyone who lays down his weapons and goes home would be pardoned; anyone who resisted would be shown no mercy. A Libyan government news agency reported that the government has offered to cease military operations until Sunday to give rebels the opportunity to disperse and return home.

Opposition leaders vowed to stand firm and heed not Gadhaffi's threats.

Escalating Violence in Bahrain

 Violence is escalating in Bahrain, with clashes between protesters and the military.

After aggressively taking the Pearl Roundabout, a traffic circle which had been being used by the protesters as a rallying point, the military also took over hospitals, which they viewed as being hot-spots for the dissenters.  There were reports coming in on Wednesday of medics and doctors being beaten for attempting to help the wounded in the streets.  Today, however, there are reports that the military is allowing doctors in and out of the hospitals.

Said Ms Pillay, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, "There are reports of arbitrary arrests, killings, beatings of protesters and of medical personnel, and the takeover of hospitals and medical centres by various security forces... This is shocking and illegal conduct."
(source: BBC World News)

The protesters primarily come from the Shia majority who are upset about the disparity in power between them and the ruling Sunnis.  King Hamad has been in power since 1999.  he rules a kingdom of 800,000 individuals.  The median population age is 30.4 years, meaning that there is quite a large youth population.  Unemployment among this youth is estimated at 19.6%.

The streets of Manama are quiet yet tense after yesterday's violence.  Soldiers patrol the streets, enforcing a curfew.  There are reports that police, interior ministry agents, and riot police are attempting to disperse smaller protests in outlying villages.  Some roads to these villages were blocked by military vehicles, but in Manama, citizens are apparently erecting barricades in an attempt to keep the soldiers out of their neighborhoods.

On Tuesday, King Hamad declared a state of emergency in response to the month long protests and called in Saudi troops to establish order.

This repression has inflamed the people of predominately Shia Lebanon and Iran, where many demonstrated in sympathy.

Libyan Government Retakes More Cities

Several cities were retaken by government forces over the last two days.  Ajabiya was breached by pro-Gadhafi forces, but the opposition military was able push them back to the outskirts.  This city is of key strategic importance, being only 160 km west of Benghazi, which serves as a headquarters for the opposition forces.

The opposition forces were able deploy minimal air and naval assets today.  Naval assets sank two oil tankers that had been converted to warships by Gadhafi's military and disabled another.

Their minimal air assets do not compare to Gadhafi's air forces and still call for an internationally imposed no-fly zone.

Many in Libya are clamoring for outside help, wondering when and if they can expect aid from the self styled "champion of democracy" United States.

The Ongoing Battle in Libya, Violence Across the Region

"It is in the United States interest and the interest of the Libyan people that GAdhafi does not stay [in power]" said President Barak Obama on Friday, March 11th.  At the same press conference, he stated that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was to meet with the National Provisional Council (the opposition government) and that he was looking to assign a permanent representative to be in close contact with the group.

France has officially recognized the National Provisional Council as the legitimate government of Libya.  This is a bold move, exemplifying the rift in state opinion among the Western powers.  France and the United Kingdom are more enthusiastic in regards to public support for the opposition forces, vocally supporting the no-fly zone operation.  The United States and Germany (the latter is typically more reserved on matters of foreign military intervention) are more cautious in there approach to foreign policy towards the delicate situation in Libya.

Meanwhile, government forces loyal to Moammar Gadhafi have retaken the rebel holdings of Brega and Bin Jawad.  The former city is important for Libya's oil production and refining, and it is also important due to its location of opposition's stronghold Benghazzi.

Protestors in Bahrain clash once more with police.  The security forces fired tear gas on a crowd that they say was blocking an important freeway and had refused orders to clear out.  Members of the crowd report that they were in the process of leaving when they were fired upon.

In Yemen, police and security forces fired on protesters with tear gas and conventional firearms.

Earthquake/Tsunami Strikes Japan

A 8.9 or 9.0 earthquake struck near Japan two days ago, followed by a lethal tsunami.  Thousands are dead, even more are injured, and there are many thousands of people still unaccounted for.  The international community, led by the United States, is sending aid in the form of monetary donations, soldiers and personnel to help search for survivors and victims, and excavation equipment.  There are food shortages all across the island chain.

Three nuclear power plants were damaged in the earthquake and following tsunami.  There has been a leak in one of the plants, although the extent of the leak is unknown.  Japanese officials are evacuating civilians in a 12 mile (20 km) radius around the plant, although international nuclear experts warn that this is not far enough.  The Japanese government is distributing Iodine to civilians living around the power plant.  These pills help a little in warding off or delaying the damaging effects of radiation poisoning.

Ras Lanuf is Reclaimed by Libyan Government, Opposition Remains Firm in Other Cities

Gadhafi's military forces have driven the opposition forces from the city of Ras Lanuf.  The government military used air power to gain the upper hand.

In Brega and other contested cities, the opposition remains resolute, albeit angery and disgusted at the government's "unfair" use of air support.

Libya Update: 3/9/11

In Libya, it appears that the opposition forces are beginning to lose momentum.  Fierce fighting has occurred in numerous cities, including Bin Jawad, now apparently in the hands of the Libyan army; Ras Lanuf, lost and then retaken by the opposition forces; and Zawiya, close to Tripoli, which, despite claims by the Gadhafi government that it has been pacified, remains the site of continued struggle for control.

Aside from the arrival of an Italian ship delivering aid to Benghazi and implementing an arms embargo, the international community has yet to adopt any major course of action regarding Libya.  Once again, Washington has stated that "all options remain on the table."  Defense Secretary Gates and the Pentagon, including the retired air force general who ran the "no fly zone" in Iraq during the Persian Gulf War of the 1990s continue to show reluctance for a similar "no fly zone" over Libya.    They are hesitant, saying that a "no fly zone" will "begin with an attack on Libya," most likely a naval bombardment or cruise missile strikes on Libya's extensive anti-aircraft missile sites.

American Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said that it is important that any action taken in regard to Libya has international support and is not seen as an American or European effort.

Libyan Opposition to Form a New Government

The forces opposing Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi have formed an alternative government, the National Provisional Council.  It is led by thirty members from "liberated cities" across Libya and is working closely with military leaders who are coordinating the various armed opposition groups.

A spokesperson for the group has said that they are pleased that so many of Libya's diplomatic corps has ceased recognizing the Gadhafi government.

Thus far they have asked for two things of the international community.  The first was that the National Provisional Council be recognized as legitimate government of Libya.  Their second request was for the enforcement of a no fly zone, especially from the direction of Niger, Chad, and Mali, three sources of the infamous mercenaries hired by Gadhafi since the beginning of the protests.

Developments in Libya, as of March 2, 2011

In Tripoli, there are some pro-government demonstrations, but many with anti-Gadhafi sentiments who are afraid to leave their residences.

The opposition is currently waging open warfare against the loyalist security forces for the control of cities across the country.  One of the most fiercely contested is al-Brega, an important oil and natural gas refining city, controlling the flow of natural gas into the eastern part of Libya.  The city is also an important source of natural gas for Italy.  While on his way to al-Brega, CNN's Ben Wedeman observed military aircraft bombing the opposition forces, one bomb landing less than 100 feet (30.48 meters) away.

Negotiations are underway between the government of Libya and the opposition, but it is difficult because there are numerous factions within the opposition, each with its own agenda.  There is a council being formed to create a new government.  The Libyan ambassador the UN is asking that this council be recognized as the legitimate government of Libya.  The former Minister of Justice and other government officials have defected to help establish this council.

World Response Options

A United States marine assault carrier is en route to the waters off of Libya, it is currently in the Suez canal.  Several destroyers are in the area and the USS Enterprise is currently holding anchor in the Red Sea.

Options being discussed by the international community include NATO air strikes.  The United States is trying to get Russia and China on board, or at least get them to agree to abstain on a UN Security Council vote.  France has also been a little apprehensive about military options, remembering Iraq.

The most hotly debated topic has been the idea of enforcing a "no-fly zone" over Libya to prevent Gadhafi's air force from launching bombing raids and strafing runs on the opposition.  While many prominent members of the United States Congress are fans of this option (including Senators McCain, Kerry, and Graham), many in the Pentagon are hesitant.  The military commanders point out that it is not as simple as the senators are making it seem.  Defense Secretary Gates points out that in order to effectively enforce such a no-fly zone, the military would first have to destroy Libya's many anti-aircraft systems. 

The Arab League condemns the idea of foreign military intervention in the form of a no-fly zone.

Reports from Libyan Leaders

As violence escalates between opposition forces and loyalists in Libya, Moammar Gadhafi seems to be in denial.  In interviews, he has made puzzling statements, such as "all of my people love me, they would die to protect me."  He has also threatened the United States and other world leaders, saying that if they invade his country, then they would be greeted with a "bath of blood."

On Monday, his son Saif told loyal security forces to stay strong, as support and weapons were on the way.  This report was published on CNN, although they said that the source was an unconfirmed Youtube video.

Also, earlier in the week, the Libyan ambassador to the United States has said that Gadhaffi has "separated from reality."  The ambassador says that he estimates that 2,000 had died by Monday since the violence broke out two weeks ago.  Other estimates put this death toll as high as 6,000.

Refugees Flee to Tunisia; Britain Freezes Gadhafi's Assets

40,000 Libyans have fled to Tunisia
-Tunisia has called for help from UN to deal with the humanitarian crisis.
-Tunisian civilians are gathering in support for their Libyan neighbors, waving the Libyan flag from before Gadhafi's 1969 military coup.
-Tunisians are working to provide refugees with food and shelter

It is estimated that a total of 100,000 people have fled Libya, most of the refugees entering either Egypt or Tunisia.

Britain has frozen Gadhafi's assets in that country.  The Foreign Secretary has echoed US President Obama's remarks that it is time for Gadhafi to step down.

Also, security forces in a major town near Tripoli have deserted Gadhafi to join the opposition.

Link: A blog from a citizen of Tripoli

When the Libyan government began censoring social media websites, one citizen of Tripoli found an unlikely source to get news out on the internet: gaming and video production website roosterteeth.com.  User madmanmoe discovered that the website had slipped past the government blocks and began to blog on the forums about the situations unfolding in Tripoli.

I am including the link to his user page.  Check out his "journal" entries for his first hand account of what has been transpiring.

http://roosterteeth.com/madmanmoe

Libya: More Violence, Gadhafi's Scapegoats

The city of Benghazi in the eastern part of Libya is completely in the hands of the opposition, where bands of young volunteers have secured the borders of the city.  One by one, cities throughout the country are being wrested from the government's control.

Tripoli is on lock down.  Throughout the western part of the country, there are still reports of mercenaries indiscriminately killing civilians.  People are afraid to leave their homes in Tripoli.

Moammar Gadhafi came on state television today, claiming that the disturbance has been caused by hallucinogenic drugs slipped into the coffee at mosques by the United States and that al-Qaeda is actively involved in the violence.  His son Saif claimed that life is normal in Tripoli and that there is no disturbance.  He said that the foreign media was making up the reports of unrest.

More from Libya; Obama Responds

Gadhafi has threatened international reporters in Libya, saying that they are now considered outlaws.

Tunisia has opened its borders with Libya, welcoming refugees with open arms and food.

American President Obama made a tense speech regarding Libya.  He said that his administration was doing everything it could to protect American citizens in Libya and is evacuating them as expediently as possible.

He said that the US Foreign Service officers deserve the thanks of the nation for doing their duties in this time of crisis, despite it putting them in harm’s way.

Obama said that the US has maintained a set of core principles for dealing with the region.  HE strongly condemned the use of violence in Libya, calling the suffering and bloodshed “outrageous and unacceptable” and saying that it must stop.

He said that the United States supports the universal rights of assembly, free speech, and the “ability to determine their own destiny.”  He said that these are universal rights and that all the people of the world possess them.

He spoke of the unanimous UN Security Council decision condemning the Libyan government and calling for sanctions against the country.  He cited similar documents coming from the European Union, the African Union, the Arab League, and governments around the world.

Obama called the situation volatile and said that he asked the State Department to consider all options available that could potentially aid the people of Libya, both unilaterally and multilaterally with the international community and allies such as NATO.

Closing, Obama said that the Libyan government must be held accountable for their failures to the people.  He reminded them that the entire world is watching and that the US will coordinate relief for the suffering people.

Obama said that he has asked key administration personnel to make several stops in Europe to talk with allies there.  He said that Secretary of State Clinton is to go to Geneva, Switzerland to speak with world leaders on human rights violations in Libya.

Finally, Obama reiterated that he still stands with Egypt and Tunisia and is committed to supporting the new efforts for democracy there.  He said that the change in the region is being driven by the people: not by the US or any foreign power.

Many fear that if Gadhafi goes, then Libya will Balkanize- splitting into several states based on region or tribe.  Tribal violence could become a major issue.

There are some who advocate, if the opportunity presents itself, to eliminate Gadhafi with a precision air or drone-missile strike.