From Denny: Once the United Nations and The Arab League agreed to a no-fly zone late last week, they wasted little time in implementing it. That has to be the fastest the United Nations has ever moved to agreement or action to help a besieged people.
From the sea over 100 miles away, the UK and America lobbed cruise missiles at Gadafi installations, most especially his air defense ones. After all, if you are going to send up French and American planes to enforce the no-fly zone you first have to take out the military capability of Gadafi to fire upon them.
While America claims to only be part of the operation it is clear we are the majority of it during the first few days of establishing air superiority over Libya. Of the 136 cruise missles launched, only eight were from the UK, the rest were American.
There were over 30 air strikes, again, mostly by Americans. I don't know why France was not the lead here since Gadafi is their Problem Child they enabled for four decades. They should be the ones to deal with him.
Fortunately, it was the French who did take the lead, aggressively calling for a coalition to do this No-Fly-Zone in Paris last week while President Obama hesitated, much like he did on Egypt. The new Egyptian government is not too thrilled with Obama as they feel he did not help them enough in the early days when they cried out for world leadership to come to their aid.
There was a cease fire called by Gadafi on Friday which he never honored. He continued moving aggressively upon his people, the rebel strongholds, to destroy and kill every one of them. Gadafi had just about succeeded in taking back almost all of the rebel held towns when the U.N. coalition finally acted to counter his aggressive military that was slaughtering the untrained rebels.
For now, Gadafi is somewhat contained, at least by air, where he can no longer launch missiles against his people for mass killings. Gadafi is still vicious and vindictive, willing to send ground troops in to do his bidding. He also has ordered military troops to take off their uniforms and pretend to be civilians, stationing them in areas he does not want bombed.
Gadafi is so busy running misinformation campaigns and misdirection it makes a person wonder if he and his family members are busy gathering up their belongings and monies to steal quietly out of the country unnoticed.
When will Gadafi be gone? He may already have fled the country. Surely, Gadafi was rattled by the bombing of his personal compound. Take a look at Gadafi's compound and just how bad it looks:
The rebels have demanded that the coalition NOT take out Gadafi. Thank you very much but they would like the pleasure of achieving that glorious act themselves.
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The Social Poets: Japan: Nuclear Update, Earthquake, Tsunami, Nuclear Political Cartoons: "The Japanese keep changing and downplaying the radiation level numbers. At one point last night one Japanese official said the radiation levels at the troubled nuclear plant had reached 1,000 times the healthy levels. He was later forced to back off on that number, claiming it was a mistake in translation. No, it wasn't. Read that as a diplomatic way for a bureaucrat to get out the truth, knowing he would have to walk it back but at least the information would get out to the public."
The Social Poets: Women in Peril: Ivory Coast Protesters The defiant leader of the Ivory Coast, Laurent Gbagbo, ordered his forces to fire upon thousands of unarmed female protesters. Six were killed. In this culture, when women march as protesters it is considered a last resort against an unrestrained Army.
From Denny: Today news reached the West that Gadhafi air bombed a rebel held town in eastern Libya in a desperate attempt to retake control. Two bombs were dropped near al-Brega.
Why did Gadhafi choose that town when so many others are now under rebel control? Try the fact this town possesses key oil and natural gas facilities: money makers.
Gadhafi decided to drop yet a third bomb for good measure. People on the ground retaliated with what meager means they had like shooting or throwing stones. Then they did the wise thing and fled the area.
Fighting was seen on the ground as Gadhafi's forces moved in to take control of the university in al-Brega. People were rushing to the bombing site with stretchers. Doctors report there are at least four dead, 23 wounded, all victims of gunshot wounds.
Here is the good news: Locals say the rebels were successful in repelling the Gadhafi ground forces and are still in control of al-Brega.
Another town getting the Gadhafi bombing treatment?
The town of Ajdabiya took a beating as Gadhafi's aircraft bombed military camps located just outside of the town. A local tribal leader says that the youth of Ajdabiya gathered together and headed toward the conflict to help defend their town. This town has been in rebel hands for several days and they do not want to give it up easily.
What about the military bases in Libya: who is in control?
Turns out several of the military bases in eastern Libya have fallen to rebel control too. Many members of the military have walked away from the Gadhafi regime, joining their countrymen in the opposition forces.
How do these bombings affect the world community's decision?
The reaction from the international community over the bombings could exact a high toll from Gadhafi. They are calling for a no-fly zone - which should have been done earlier but Obama hesitated. Perhaps he did not understand how a ruthless dictator would take to the air to prove his point he had superior force and was not afraid to use it against his own people.
Well, Obama gets it now. The word is NATO agrees to a no-fly zone to prevent future bombings. Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said imposing a no-fly zone would be "an extraordinarily complex operation." And President Obama says "all options are on the table." American naval warships already are cruising in the Libyan area.
What a ranking Senator on the Foreign Relations Committee had to say
Senator John Kerry, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stated today, "While Libyans are not asking for foreign troops on the ground, they need the tools to prevent the slaughter of innocents on Libyan streets. And I believe that the global community cannot be on the sidelines while airplanes are allowed to bomb and strafe. A no-fly zone is not a long-term proposition, assuming the outcome is what all desire. I believe that we ought to be ready to implement it as necessary."
How is the Arab League handling the Libyan situation?
They met today to consider a resolution calling to reject foreign military intervention in Libya. Protesters in Libya have been demonstrating for weeks, calling for more freedoms and for Gadhafi, the four decades ruler, to leave office.
From the Arab League: "We perceive what happened and what is happening is an internal affair that is decided by the people and their governments." Sounds like they are trying to buy Gadhafi time to regain control or sneak out of the country safely.
Of course, the famous Gadhafi declaration if America or NATO decide to intervene: "Thousands and thousands of people will be killed." Gadhafi also rambles on, in a recent two and a half hour speech, complaining that the protests are orchestrated by America, al Qaeda sleeper cells released from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and other outside influences. Read that as "It's not my fault. Blame it on the other guy."
What is the International Criminal Court doing about Libya?
They have decided to open an investigation. Their statement: "Following a preliminary examination of available information, the prosecutor has reached the conclusion that an investigation is warranted."
The court is focusing upon "the most serious crimes of concern to the international community." As to date no charges or violations were listed in the statement.
What has the United Nations done about Libya?
Yesterday the U.N. General Assembly suspended Libya from its seat on the 47-member chamber Human Rights Council. This was the first time the U.N. has ever suspended anyone from the council. It's weak resolutions like this that anger the international public. What we want to see is Libya, one of the worst violators of Human Rights in the world for four decades, should never have been allowed to get onto the council in the first place. Now that Libya was suspended it should be permanently barred.
Of course, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon trumpeted the weak resolution as, ""The world has spoken with one voice." Then he urged everyone else to do the work and investigate the human rights violations of Libya. "We demand an immediate end to the violence toward civilians and full respect for their fundamental human rights, including those of peaceful assembly and free speech." Sec. General Ban, hearing of the news reports, commented the events that are happening "are sobering" because of the deaths and ongoing repression by Gadhafi.
"Arms depots and arsenals have reportedly been opened to gangs who terrorize communities. There are reports that government forces have fired indiscriminately on peaceful protesters and bombed the military bases in the east of the country," Ban said.
"The death toll from nearly two weeks of violence is unknown, but likely to exceed 1,000, with thousands more wounded," he added. Libya's former American ambassador who defected to the U.S., says he estimates the death toll above 2,000.
Are the rebel leaders talking with Gadhafi to meet a resolution?
The talks are not clear. Gadhafi's son, Saif al-Islam Gadhafi, says his talks with the opposition are "in chaos." He claims there are no obvious leaders and the opposition is divided. Who believes that? They are united in opposing the Gadhafi regime. Nor have we heard from any opposition leaders if the Gadhafi regime has attempted to contact them for discussions.
U.S. officials are also not clear as to who are the opposition leaders so they can offer them assistance. Considering the ruthless repression of the Gadhafi regime it would be smart to remain anonymous until the smoke clears. During World War II the French Resistance, headquartered in Lyon, France, chose the anonymous route too until it was clear who could be trusted.
Which cities are under control of the rebels vs. Gadhafi as it stands now?
Tripoli, the capitol city, still remains in Gadhafi's hands. However, Benghazi, al-Brega, Ajdabiya and many more cities are now in rebel hands. The rebels are advancing upon Tripoli. That means the rebels now control some of the resource rich area of Libya.
What is the refugee situation?
About 150,000 people have fled Libya's fighting, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency. They have crossed over the border into Egypt and Tunisia, literally thousands arriving hourly, without money or food. The situation is growing desperate as Tunisia and Egypt do not have the resources to cope. This is an excellent area where the international community can help - instead of providing military assistance.
Said U.N. Sec. Gen. Ban: "Time is of the essence. Thousands of lives are at stake."
How do most Americans feel about military involvment in Libya and the Middle East?
Try 67 percent want nothing to do with it and think we should keep our noses out of it, according to a poll from Rasmussen Reports. The real question is whether our own elected government will listen to us.
Bring on the world political opinion via the political cartoons:
World politics - Iran - who just arrested their opposition leaders AND their wives:
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From Denny: An update on the evolving situation in Libya. There are still about 300 Americans trapped in the chaos and another 100,000 internationals trying to evacuate. Gadhafi is threatening to blow up the country if defeated. No one is sure if that means by atomic bombs or conventional - or if he will actually do it.
Gadhafi has lost most support in the international community and among his diplomats, politicians and military. All that remains are the usual suspects: the loyalist Republican Guard. Sooner or later they too will see overwhelming odds of armed protesters and throw in with them much like the police did in Egypt. It is a matter of time before the armed protesters take Tripoli as they have many other cities across the country.
Some Basic Facts To Know About Libya
What is the basic history about this country?
* 1951 is where is all starts. Libya had been under 30 years of Italian colonial rule, followed by 8 years of United Nations trusteeship. Libya finally wins its independence. The previous Italian colonial rule explains the close ties with Italy today.
* 1969 is where we see Moammar Gadhafi enter the political scene. Then he was a 27-year-old Army captain that led a mostly peaceful coup to overthrow the ruling monarchy. He positioned himself to become the now undisputed ruler, like a king. He established a socialist system while nationalizing businesses. He also went about financially supporting international terrorist groups which has earned him the ire of world leaders for decades.
* April 1986: During the Reagan years America bombed the hell out of the Gadhafi compound in Tripoli. Why? It was retaliation for the bomb blast that killed U.S. troops in a bombed Berlin, Germany discotheque. It was reported American jet air strikes killed Gadhafi's adopted baby daughter, though most of what is reputed to be fact in Libya usually cannot be substantiated.
* 1988: This is the famous Lockerbie incident that earned Gadhafi zero sympathy. Libyan agents planted a bomb that blew up Pan Am Flight 103 over the Scottish town of Lockerbie. They killed 270 people, mostly Americans. Since this depraved incident that took the lives of innocents, Libya was isolated by the world community through United Nations sanctions, harming its economy.
* 2003: Crippled by international sanctions and international outrage and lawsuits, Libya finally admits responsibility for the Lockerbie bombing. Gadhafi also claimed he would end his efforts at developing weapons of mass destruction. He actually was making progress at normalizing relations with the international community, most notably the West.
* January 2009: Libya antes up and pays compensation to the American families of the Lockerbie victims. America then decides to exchange ambassadors with Libya, the first time in 35 years of frosty relations.
* 2009: Gadhai marks his 40 year anniversary of absolute rule with some seriously lavish celebrations at a time when the country's economy and the average person is hurting. Gadhafi is elected chairman of the African Union for a one-year term.
* By 2010: Various countries, including America, bring in business personnel to trade and scoop up Libyan oil. This includes hundreds of thousands of international employees.
* Feb. 15, 2011: Sparked by the Egypt Revolution and Tunisia's revolt, a pro-democracy anti-government protest erupts in Libya. This peaceful revolt quickly turns bloody with pro-Gadhafi forces killing protesters. In turn, the protesters have armed themselves and begun their own military campaigns to take the cities one at a time. Currently, they are closing in on Tripoli, the capitol city and it is expected to fall to the protesters.
Gadhafi has been steadily losing support among the diplomats, the politicians, the military. Jet fighters ordered to fire upon the people have rejected the orders, crashed their planes, and requested asylum in other countries. Diplomats have defected, requested asylum as well. All Gadhafi has left is his loyalist Republican Guard but it is tenuous how long he can hold out.
Gadhafi has threatened to blow up the whole country if is he is not able to stay in power. It now is a waiting game to see if he makes good on his threats. At this point, the protesters have nothing to lose as they press ahead to gain control of their country away from this madman.
What is the geography of this troublesome country called Libya?
* It's about the size of our state of Alaska, a bit larger at 1.7 million square kilometers or 660,000 square miles.
* Most of this country is a barren place of about 90 percent desert or semi-desert.
* The nearest neighboring countries are Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Niger, Chad and the Sudan.
What population size lives in Libya?
* About one-third of the country is under the age of 14 years old or actually younger. There are 6.5 million total residents.
* The majority of that 6.5 million live in cities, to the tune of nearly 80 percent of them.
* About 97 percent of the population are Muslims.
What is the state of the Libyan economy?
* According to the World Bank figures, the Gross Domestic Product of Libya in 2009 was $62 billion.
* You guessed it. The vast majority of their revenues from exports come from oil. This is definitely not a wise choice to depend upon only one product.
* Libya has the 9th largest oil reserves in the world.
What is the Libyan reputation on Human Rights?
* 2010: Libya earns the worst score possible for measuring freedom, according to the Freedom House.
* 2005: Libyan human rights score rated as poor by the U.S. State Department, though there were said to be some meager improvements. Still the stain of torturing detainees, arbitrary arrests, civil liberties' restrictions remain standard operating procedure in this Gadhafi regime.
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From Denny: Finally, President Obama announces sanctions on Libya again. This Libyan dictator spent decades in sanctions limbo only to get thrown back into sanctions prison yet again. This guy should have been overthrown a long time ago.
Obama says he is freezing Libyan nationals' financial assets and there are economic sanctions to be put in place as well. He has not said what the specifics are to be exactly, as yet undetermined pending review of what will work best. Read that as he and his staff don't know and will be running around asking all the so-called experts what to do.
So far Obama has phoned key allies like UK Prime Minister Cameron, Prime Minister of Turkey, skirt-chasing Italy's Berlusconi and the United Nations Secretary General. Obama does not want to institute a no-fly zone but does not say why. The American embassy in Libya has been shuttered and closed down. Well, yeah, the country is in the process of becoming a failed state quickly.
One thing Obama did get right was to "hold his powder" as my Grand Dad used to say. Obama refused to satisfy the critics who demanded he come out and start screaming at and denouncing Gadhafi when the protests began. Well, there was the little matter of many hundreds of embassy and oil industry personnel still present in this chaotic country and we had to get them out safely. Today, a plane took off from the capitol city of Tripoli with Americans glad to leave that nightmare. Others arrived after 60 hours trapped on a ferry. But at least they are out now.
Currently, there is civil war going on in the country with Gadhafi murdering the once peaceful protesters. Law and order has gone out the window since Gadhafi began killing people. Now, protesters have taken up arms and have started taking over whole cities. This protest makes the Egypt Revolution look like Disneyland sweet.
Of course, everyone around the world keep stressing about how much the price of oil will go up. For one thing, what a sham. If world leaders are so weak as to allow Big Business to up the price of oil to $10 to $15 a gallon just in America then they will implode all the world economies. How stupid can you get? Here in America we sit on federal oil reserves stored in Louisiana. Oil prices are determined years ago to what they are to be today so why all of a sudden go up but for one reason: excessive profit?
America does not get all its oil from this area of the Middle East, a small percentage. As it is, America is sitting on the largest oil deposit in the world of light sweet crude, the easiest to process: the Gulf of Mexico. The same Gulf of Mexico, that BP polluted with their inept management of the oil rigs, people and the oil deposit. There is enough oil there to last America for well over a century.
The problem is that America allows Wall Street to control our resources to the point Americans don't get but a small benefit from our own oil reserves. Well, it's about time that this President get off his lazy ass and started taking care of the average American person instead of Big Business and Wall Street cheats.
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