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.
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.
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