Tipsheet

Libya Calls For Immediate Cease Fire Against Rebels

Libyan Foreign Minister Musa Kusa has called for an immediate cease fire against rebels who have been fighting against the dictator Muammar Gaddafi for weeks after the United Nations and the United States approved a no-fly zone yesterday that would require the bombing of Libya. The no-fly zone, if implemented, will reduce the threat of Gaddafi's forces against rebels, however, steps must be taken to ensure U.S. and British troops enforcing the no-fly zone can do it safely.

From AP:

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Thursday that a U.N. no-fly zone over Libya would require bombing targets inside the country to reduce the threat posed by Moammar Gadhafi's forces.

Her assessment made clear the risk of possible military intervention as world powers consider broader steps to protect civilians and pressure the Libyan leader.

"A no-fly zone requires certain actions taken to protect the planes and the pilots, including bombing targets like the Libyan defense systems," Clinton said as she neared the end of a Middle East trip dominated by worries about Libya, where a rebel offensive is apparently flagging.

Clinton said discussions are going beyond specific actions toward broader authorization so countries can enforce any U.N. measures. No ground intervention is being considered, she said.