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.
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.
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