Brussels: NATO has announced to extend its military mission in Libya until the end of September, 2011 as the Libyan leader made it clear that he would not quit.
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen Wednesday said, “This decision sends a clear message to the Gaddafi regime. We are determined to continue our operation to protect the people of Libya.”
The progresses come as NATO warplanes have intensified attacks on Tripoli, especially in the Bab al-Aziziya district of the Libyan capital. NATO alliance took over command of the operation from the US in late March.
The UN Security Council resolution 1973 mandated NATO to enforce a no-fly zone to protect civilians from attacks by Gaddafi forces until the end of June.
The US and NATO have unleashed a punishing, UN-mandated offensive against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi to pressure him into giving up power.
NATO has conducted about 9,000 sorties over Libya since it assumed control of a military campaign in late March. The airstrikes by the military alliance have killed dozens of civilians as well as revolutionary fighters.
Critics accuse the West of double standards over the offensive on Libya, along with its silence towards the brutal crackdowns on similar anti-regime movements elsewhere in the Arab world.
Experts said that the main motive behind the Western attack on Libya was the vast oil reserves of the North African country.
Libya has been the scene of fierce fighting between pro-Gaddafi troops and anti-regime forces since mid-February. Revolutionary forces wanted Gaddafi to leave his decades-long rule.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription