Libyan Revolution Day 31 part 2 (RIP Mohammed Nabbous, killed by Gaddafi forces, airstrikes begin)

[joshcryer]

Links to sites with updates: http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0">AJE Live Blog March 20 (today) http://blogs.aljazeera.net/twitter-dashboard">AJE Twitter Dashboard http://feb17.info/">feb17.info http://www.livestream.com/libya17feb?utm_source=lsplayer&utm_medium=embed&utm_campaign=footerlinks">Libya Alhurra (live video webcast from Benghazi) http://www.libyafeb17.com/">libyafeb17.com

Twitter links: http://twitter.com/#!/aymanm">Ayman Mohyeldin, with AJE http://twitter.com/#!/bencnn">Ben Wedeman, with CNN http://twitter.com/#!/tripolitanian">tripolitanian, a Libyan from Tripoli http://twitter.com/#!/BaghdadBrian">Brian Conley, reporter in Libya http://twitter.com/#!/freelibyanyouth">FreeLibyanYouth, Libyan advocate http://twitter.com/#!/LibyaFeb17_com">LibyaFeb17.com twitter account http://twitter.com/#!/ChangeInLibya">ChangeInLibya, Libyan advocate

Useful links: http://audioboo.fm/feb17voices">feb17voices http://www.google.com/search?q=time+in+libya">Current time in Libya http://www.islamicfinder.org/cityPrayerNew.php?country=libya">Prayer times in Libya

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x692608">Day 31 part 1 here.

Mohammed Nabbous, killed by Gaddafi's forces while trying to report on the massacre in Benghazi

"I'm not afraid to die, I'm afraid to lose the battle" -Mohammed Nabbous, a month ago when all this began

I'm struggling to come up with something to say about this man. I was not aware of the Libyan uprising until I saw Mo's first report, begging for help, posted here on DU. I was stricken. Here was a man giving everything he had to explain a situation that clearly terrified him, I would not call him a coward in that moment, but you could see the fear in his eyes, and desperation in his voice. For 30 days Nabbous would spend many hours covering the uprising in Benghazi. For many nights I would go to sleep with the webcast of Benghazi live on my computer screen, looking to it occasionally to be sure it was still 'there.' Mo treated the chat room as if we were his friends, and in some way, we were. I never signed up to LiveStream to thank him for all his work and it seems somewhat shallow to do so now, given that I was a lurker for so long. Ever since I took over posting these threads "Libya Alhurra" has been linked as a source of information. It wasn't until last night, when I posted, and twitter posted on Mo's adventures out into Benghazi to try to determine the truth of the situation, that Mo's webchannel became a hit, over 2000 people were watching him stream live. This was curious to him because he'd done many reports like this in the past but he appeared somewhat bemused that the view count exploded as it did. Last night Mo became a star. This is a man who first started out with a webcast replete with fear and desperation finally overcoming that aspect of himself and losing that fear, to become someone who was a fighter for the resistance just as much as those who held the guns. Reporting on the front lines of Benghazi became his final act, and for that he should never, ever be forgotten. I'm so sorry Mo that I never got to know you better.

Mo leaves behind a wife who is with child.

Mo's first report, which many of you may remember, begging for help: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38EXALI60hg

Mo's last report, a fallen hero trying to spread the word to the world: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecu_iWLn-rg

Sam sites in Libya

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/sc-dc-0320-us-military-libya-20110319,0,7579064.story?track=rss">U.S. warships launch airstrikes on Libya
Reporting from Washington— U.S. warships launched airstrikes at targets along Libya's coast on Saturday in an opening attack to degrade Moammar Kadafi's air defense systems and allow international allies to establish a no-fly zone aimed at protecting civilians.

The U.S. and Britain launched more than 110 Tomahawk missiles at more than 20 targets. The strikes targeted specifically surface-to-air missile sites and radar detectors that are part of the Libyan military's air defense infrastructure, said Vice Admiral William E. Gortney, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.

The U.S. had identified sites along the coast of Libya, including around the capital of Tripoli and the city of Misratah, the Pentagon confirmed.

While President Obama has emphasized that American forces would play a subordinate role in enforcing the no-fly zone over Libya, the Pentagon said the U.S. had to lead the operation in its early days because it has the greatest capability to destroy Kadafi's air defenses, a key prerequisite to taking control of Libya's airspace.

The USS Barry launches a Tomahawk missile in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn



http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x677397">Text of the resolution.

How will a no fly zone work? AJE reports: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWEwehTtK2k

Canada:

http://winnipeg.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20110317/cf-libya-canada/20110317/?hub=WinnipegHome">Canada to send six CF-18s for Libya 'no-fly' mission
Canada will contribute six CF-18 fighter jets to help enforce a no-fly zone in Libya, sources have told CTV News.

Norway:

http://af.reuters.com/article/libyaNews/idAFOSN00509220110318">Norway to join military intervention in Libya
OSLO, March 18 (Reuters) - Norway will join the international military action against Muammar Gaddafi's forces in Libya, a Norwegian daily quoted the defence minister as saying on its website on Friday.

"We will contribute to the operation," Grete Faremo told the daily Verdens Gang. "But it is too early to say exactly in what way. Sending air capabilities would be natural."

Belgium:

http://www.lesoir.be/actualite/monde/2011-03-18/la-belgique-prete-a-une-operation-militaire-en-libye-828970.php">Belgium ready for a military operation in Libya
Our country is available to take part in a military operation in Libya, following the UN vote authorizing the use of force against Gaddafi. The government has observed, in Parliament yesterday, a broad consensus in the Belgian political class on the need to prevent the Libyan leader to crush the rebellion in Benghazi.

Qatar and the UAE:

http://www.defpro.com/daily/details/776/?SID=e80884adc09a37d26904578a9b5978cb">Run-up for Western world’s next military commitment ... with unusual support
France and the United Kingdom, which spearheaded the diplomatic push in the Security Council for the implementation of a no-fly zone, received unusual but certainly very welcome support. According to a further unnamed AFP source, the Council confirmed that Qatar and the UAE will join the international effort.

Denmark:

http://www.cphpost.dk/news/international/89-international/51229-denmark-ready-for-action-against-gaddafi.html">Denmark ready for action against Gaddafi
Espersen will discuss the resolution “as soon as possible” with the other political parties.

“We’re ready to take action immediately, and that includes ensuring prompt treatment of the resolution in parliament, so that Denmark can deploy its four F-16 fighter jets,” she said.

France:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/19/world/africa/19libya.html?src=twrhp">Following U.N. Vote, France Vows Libya Action ‘Soon’
UNITED NATIONS — Only hours after the United Nations Security Council voted to authorize military action, including airstrikes against Libyan tanks and heavy artillery and impose a no-flight zone to try to avert a rout of rebels by forces loyal to Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi. French officials said on Friday that military action would start “within a few hours” and news reports said British and French warplanes would spearhead the attack.

Italy:

http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFLDE72G2HE20110317">Italy to make bases available for Libya no-fly zone-source
TUNIS, March 17 (Reuters) - Italy is ready to make its military bases available to enforce a U.N. Security Counci resolution imposing a no-fly zone on Libya, an Italian government source told Reuters on Thursday.

United Kingdom:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12770467">Libya: UK forces prepare after UN no-fly zone vote
UK forces are preparing to help enforce a no-fly zone over Libya after the UN backed "all necessary measures", short of an invasion, to protect civilians.

United States:

http://www.newsday.com/news/nation/nations-draw-up-plans-for-no-fly-zone-over-libya-1.2765122">Nations draw up plans for no-fly zone over Libya
The United States, France and Britain were making plans Friday to prevent Moammar Gadhafi's forces from attacking Libyans after the U.N. Security Council authorized a no-fly zone over Libya and "all necessary measures" to protect civilians.

Jordan:

http://www.smh.com.au/world/military-strikes-on-libya-within-hours-20110318-1bzii.html?from=smh_sb">Military strikes on Libya 'within hours'
Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will join international forces ready to enforce the no-fly zone, US Congress and UN diplomatic sources say.

Spain:

http://english.cri.cn/6966/2011/03/19/2801s627320.htm">Spain Expected to Join NATO No-fly Zone Enforcement over Libya Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is expected to confirm Spain's contribution of two air force bases at a summit in Paris to discuss the enforcement of a no-fly zone over Libya Saturday.

"One month ago (Western countries) were sooo nice, so nice like pussycats," Saif says in a contemptuous sing-song tone."Now they want to be really aggressive like tigers. (But) soon they will come back, and cut oil deals, contracts. We know this game." - http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2058389,00.html">Saif Gaddafi

(Yeah, Saif, as if you weren't "cutting oil deals, contracts" with western states. Who are the 'tigers' now? Bombing your own people.)

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-10-0">March 10 7:28pm Saif al Islam Gaddafi says "the time has come for full-scale military action" against Libyan rebels. He goes on to say that Libyan forces loyal to his family "will never surrender, even if western powers intervene".

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/interactive/2011/feb/27/libya-tripoli-unrest-gaddafi-map">Click here for updated and interactive map

Military Installations



Oil Map



http://bit.ly/fe3P">Google Earth DL here to see positions of army and patrolling route of mercenaries

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=212059469427545728757.00049c4df2474b6543347&ll=31.203405,30.058594&spn=96.173452,183.867188&z=3">MAP of Protests across the Middle East

[joshcryer]

1. Current time in Libya, 2:42pm Sunday, March 20.

[pinboy3niner]

2. K&R

[joshcryer]

3. Combat map from NYT, this will be the new map I think:

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/02/25/world/middleeast/map-of-how-the-protests-unfolded-in-libya.html

[ancient_nomad]

21. Excellent Map

And a KnR for your efforts! My thanks to you. I read and look for your threads everyday, but don't post much due to computer problems. I am so sad about Mo. Your tribute to him is very fitting.

[joshcryer]

4. Photo gallery of the operations in Benghazi (um, war is fucked):

http://www.elpais.com/fotogaleria/Operacion/Odisea/Amanecer/Libia/elpgal/20110319elpepuint_1/Zes/2

Gaddafi's people don't have a chance.

[CJvR]

36. Good!

Certainly preferable to the Rebels having no chance.

[joshcryer]

40. Apparently it was more than a dozen tanks and even more armored vehicles. Benghazi...

...was going to be razed I don't care what people say.

[joshcryer]

5. France sends carrier to Libya, more flights

http://af.reuters.com/article/tunisiaNews/idAFLDE72J0A720110320?rpc=401&feedType=RSS&feedName=tunisiaNews&rpc=401">France sends carrier to Libya, more flights
PARIS, March 20 (Reuters) - France readied to send an aircraft carrier towards Libya on Sunday and its warplanes carried out operations over the north African country, armed forces and defence officials said.

"The French operations continue," said a source at armed forces headquarters. "French planes are in place (over Libya)."

The Charles de Gaulle carrier, the flagship of the fleet, was set to leave the southern port of Toulon within hours to take part in the operation, a defence ministry spokesman said.

"It should set sail at 1 o'clock (1200 GMT)," he said.

[joshcryer]

6. VIDEO: AJE reports on military assets

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFbsQcIVQL8

[pinboy3niner]

7. Mullen says Libyan regime's offensive on Benghazi has been stopped

Both CNN and AJE reporting.

[pinboy3niner]

8. CNN--Residents of Benghazi have one message, and that is: "Thankyou!"

CNN's Arwa Damon reporting from Benghazi.

She reports Benghazi residents wanting everyone to know that Gaddafi's claims of coalition attacks striking civilian targets are not true--the strikes on Gaddafi's tanks outside Benghazi were "right on target."

She also reported that the people of Benghazi "have one message, and that is: 'Thankyou!'"

Earlier reports said that at least 94 people were killed when Gaddafi forces attacked Benghazi with tanks and heavy artillery late Friday night and early Saturday morning before the arrival of the French jets.

[joshcryer]

9. The time when Mo's wife annouced his passing:

http://www.livestream.com/libya17feb/video?clipId=pla_9745ec21-c64d-440f-abe7-a412e7db456d&utm_source=lslibrary&utm_medium=ui-thumb

Heartbreaking.

[joshcryer]

10. longest bombing mission the RAF have executed since the Falklands War

1303: Air Vice-Marshal Phil Osborn has described the RAF mission on Saturday night as "the longest bombing mission the RAF have executed since the Falklands War - some eight hours round trip, and during that mission we executed highly accurate strikes against high value, hardened targets key to Libya's air defences."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12776418

[joshcryer]

11. Tareq, in Tripoli writes: "This is another oil war. I'm no Gaddafi loyalist but we aren't stupid."

1259: Tareq, in Tripoli, Libya, writes: "This is another oil war. I'm no Gaddafi loyalist but we are not stupid"

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12776418

As if the UN would get involved with no vetos if there weren't resources in play. See: Burma 2007 when both Russia and China vetoed.

[pinboy3niner]

12. Gaddafi could turn to Libya’s mustard gas stockpile, some officials fear

Source: Washington Post



Gaddafi could turn to Libya’s mustard gas stockpile, some officials fear


By R. Jeffrey Smith, Saturday, March 19, 5:45 PM


In recent weeks, as U.S. and European militaries prepared to intervene in Libya, Western reconnaissance satellites have been focused on a small garage at a remote site in the Libyan desert.

In the garage, south of the city of Sirte, the Libyan government keeps about 10 tons of mustard gas in about a half-dozen large canisters. If he chose to do so — and could determine how — Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi could use the caustic chemical to kill large numbers of his people.

Nothing untoward has been seen there so far, and U.S. officials say that such an attack is unlikely and would be difficult to carry out.

But the chemicals have nonetheless been a focus of concern by former Libyan officials and some European leaders who have worried that the mercurial leader could seek to drain the tanks and either use the gas to terrorize the city of Benghazi, the last large rebel
stronghold, or try to draw on the stockpile as part of a desperate move to stay in power.


More:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/gaddafi-could-turn-to-libyas-mustard-gas-stockpile-some-officials-fear/2011/03/16/ABT9iEt_story.html

[joshcryer]

13. Yeah, apparently deploying the stuff is a lot harder than just having it.

I posted in the other thread about how they were watching a garage where they believe it's stored.

[pinboy3niner]

14. I highlighted the part downplaying the probability it can be used

We want to be careful here and not repeat the phony WMD fearmongering that led up to the Iraq invasion.

[joshcryer]

15. *nod* in the other thread I even went "oh lordy"

Not because I don't see it as a threat, but because those who love rhetoric will play it up. I don't think the US sees it as a threat.

[pinboy3niner]

16. MUST READ, ROFL!: Moammar Kadafi's thinning human shield

Source: Los Angeles Times

Moammar Kadafi's thinning human shield


'We never get scared,' says one of the supporters in Tripoli speaking of allegiance to Libya's leader in the face of international threats. And then the rumors start.


By Borzou Daragahi, Los Angeles Times

March 20, 2011



Reporting from Tripoli, Libya— It was to be a human shield, a massive gathering of Moammar Kadafi's supporters at his Bab Azizia compound, and the Libyan leader was to give a late-night speech of defiance against the international forces arrayed against him.

They would stand by their beloved Brother Leader at the same compound destroyed by President Reagan's airstrikes in 1986. Even if the bombs came sailing down. Even if the entire place went up in flames.

...


Cellphones began to ring. A hush fell over the crowd. People began to whisper to one another: Cruise missiles were being fired at Tripoli. Those sitting in a grassy area quickly got up and began heading for the exit.

More followed, until the human chain thinned to a few dozen people standing in the chill before the balcony where Kadafi was supposed to address them.

But the Brother Leader was nowhere to be seen. He would address Libyans later by telephone, from an undisclosed location.


http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-libya-kadafi-20110320,0,3713774.story


:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[CJvR]

41. Amusing.

Let's hope there isn't a security breach in UN operations behind that leak though.

[pinboy3niner]

17. Human Rights Watch supports UN-sanctioned intervention in Libya

From The Guardian:

Human Rights Watch has shown support for UN-sanctioned intervention, citing a notorious incident during Gaddafi's decades-long rule in Libya:

Since the Libyan uprising began on 17 February documented cases in which government forces opened fire on peaceful protesters and the arbitrary arrest and enforced disappearance of scores of people.

Gaddafi's deplorable human rights record over 41 years in power enhances the deep anxiety for the safety of the civilian population. Since he assumed power in 1969, Gaddafi has repeatedly used arbitrary arrests, torture, enforced disappearances, and political killings to maintain control.

The most notorious incident occurred in 1996 after a failed prisoners' revolt at Tripoli's Abu Salim prison. Security forces later killed an estimated 1,200 prisoners. The government recently started a process to compensate the families of some of those killed, but it has failed to punish any of the responsible security forces.

"The world should not ignore the serious abuses by Libyan security forces over the past month, as well as Gaddafi's demonstrated disregard for human rights over four decades," says Sarah Leah Whitson, HRW's Middle East and North Africa director.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/19/libya-no-fly-zone-live-updates?commentpage=13#block-34


I posted an OP on this in GD a few days ago:

Libya: Benghazi Civilians Face Grave Risk--Human Rights Watch
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x674189

[pinboy3niner]

18. AJE: "Three of Gaddafi's tanks have just reached the centre of rebel-held Misurata" nt

[pinboy3niner]

19. Eyewitness report from Misurata: "There are so many casualties we cannot count them"

1.31pm:

Reuters are now reporting that Gaddafi's tanks have reached the centre of the rebel-held city of Misrata.

"Two people were killed so far today by snipers. They (snipers) are still on the rooftops. They are backed with four tanks, which have been patrolling the town. It's getting very difficult for people to come out," one resident, called Sami, told Reuters by telephone.

"There are also boats encircling the port and preventing aid from reaching the town."
Abdelbasset, a spokesman for the rebels in Misrata, told Reuters: "There is fighting between the rebels and Gaddafi's forces. Their tanks are in the centre of Misrata ... There are so many casualties we cannot count them."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[joshcryer]

20. They better scatter, by nightfall they'll be toast.

I think in fact they're trying to get in civilian areas so they'll be protected as night falls.

[pinboy3niner]

22. CURRENT TIME IN LIBYA = 5 PM SUNDAY, MARCH 20

Libya time = EDT +6 hours, PDT +9 hours, GMT +2 hours

[Name removed]

23. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[pinboy3niner]

24. Eight Italian aircraft reported ready today to join operations against Libya

From Libya Live Blog - March 20:

4:39pm <10:39am EDT>

A group of eight Italian aircraft are today ready to join operations against Libya says defence minister Ignazio La Russa.

"We want to participate as equals in the operation."

He also said Italy was "ready to take action" over an Italian tugboat, whose 11 crewmembers have been detained in Libya.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[Change Happens]

25. We need to make sure we get Gaddafi within a couple of days...

[pinboy3niner]

26. AJE: Qatar aircraft moving into position to join operations in Libya; details soon. nt

[pinboy3niner]

27. AFP: Western, Arab warplanes converge for Libya mission

Western, Arab warplanes converge for Libya mission
(AFP) – 1 hour ago

ROME — Western and Arab warplanes were converging on Italy's air bases Sunday to join the international campaign to cripple the ability of Moamer Kadhafi's forces to attack Libyan civilians.

France, which on Saturday spearheaded the UN-mandated Operation "Odyssey Dawn" with air strikes on Libya, on Sunday also sent its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to join the campaign.

...


Meanwhile aircraft from the United Arab Emirates were due to arrive on Sunday at the Decimomannu air force base on the Italian island of Sardinia, which is already hosting four Spanish F-18 fighter jets that arrived on Saturday.

The UAE, along with Jordan, Morocco and Qatar, was among Arab nations that took part in a summit in Paris on Saturday on the Libyan crisis.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5geTeL6F17NEDZpIt71hw5efw76Ng?docId=CNG.58e763c4f9e27c86cf73881d881278bb.d51

[pinboy3niner]

28. RT @JNDassaro: Heard Fox news blame Libyan crisis on US teacher wages and benefits...

Razz‎ RT @JNDassaro: Heard Fox news blame Libyan crisis on US teacher wages and benefits, saying we must "equalize" with Libyan public sector wages. #wiunion
Twitter - 15
15 seconds ago

:rofl:

[pinboy3niner]

29. The Guardian's summary of coalition firepower

3.43pm:

The coalition of forces enforcing the no-fly zone over Libya commands a considerable amount of firepower. Among them:

• Tomahawk cruise missiles, precision-guided bombs and Air force B-2 stealth bombers used by the US.

• Eight Rafale and four Mirage jets to survey rebel-held Benghazi, surveillance planes and anti-submarine warship deployed by France.

• Six F18s sent by Canada to an Italian base, along with 140 military personnel.

• Four anti-radar and anti-missile Tornados, which Italy says it can deploy within 15 minutes along with a considerable number of air bases including ones in Sigonella, Sicily and Aviano in northern Italy and Decimomannu in Sardinia.

• A Boeing 707 refueling plane from Spain and two Spanish bases for Nato use at Rota and Moron de la Frontera, where US Air Force planes have been seen.

• Typhoon and Tornado jets from the UK. Britain also has an air base in southern Cyprus and two British Frigates – HMS Westminster and HMS Cumberland – are currently stationed off the Libyan coast.

• F16s and 200 personnel available from Belgium from Monday and currently at a Greek air base.

Norway and Denmark have also offered military equipment.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[meow mix]

30. K&R

[pinboy3niner]

31. AJE: "Odyssey Dawn" not the only military codename deployed...

5:49pm

Among the headlines, you may think '"Odyssey Dawn" is the only military operation in action - but we understand each of the contributing nations has their own codename for enforcing UN Security Council resolution 1973:

Operation Odyssey Dawn - The US military operation.

Operation Ellamy - The UK military effort

Operation Mobile - The Canadian component.

Operation Harmattan- The French military operation.

If we find out why they're named those names, we'll let you know...


http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[pinboy3niner]

32. 3 foreign reporters missing in Libya

3 foreign reporters missing in Libya

– 10 mins ago


BENGHAZI, Libya – A French news agency says two of its journalists and a photographer traveling with them are missing in Libya.

...


The AFP journalists are reporter Dave Clark and photographer Roberto Schmidt. They were accompanied by a photographer for Getty Images, Joe Raedle, who is also missing.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110320/ap_on_re_af/af_libya_media

[joshcryer]

33. Couldn't sleep until I caught up with twitter. MAJOR tweet dump in this post:

http://twitter.com/#!/ShababLibya/status/49490805617999872">@ShababLibya
LibyanYouthMovement
Those condemning the bombing of gaddafi targets, where were they when Gaddafi was shelling our homes, men woman and children? #Libya
1 hour ago

http://twitter.com/#!/ShababLibya/status/49491047297990656">@ShababLibya
LibyanYouthMovement
Those calling this a foreign invasion, where were they when G brought in 1000s of mercenaries killing at random & entering our homes? #Libya
1 hour ago

http://twitter.com/#!/ShababLibya/status/49491798145515520">@ShababLibya
LibyanYouthMovement
Suddenly many people seem to be experts with Libyan oil and where it will be heading post Gaddafi #Libya #Feb17 #gaddaficrimes
1 hour ago

http://twitter.com/#!/ShababLibya/status/49492234927751168">@ShababLibya
LibyanYouthMovement
Libyans started this & we will finish it Inshala. Where was your expertise and help when we complained the world hugged kissed and sold to G
1 hour ago

http://twitter.com/#!/Tripolitanian/status/49298447907553280">@Tripolitanian
Libyan
I can't believe people are complaining about the cost of this military operation - since when was there a price tag on human life?
13 hours ago

http://twitter.com/#!/tripolitanian">@Tripolitanian
Libyan
#Gaddafi, your time is up - make it easy for us and leave
15 hours ago

http://twitter.com/#!/Tripolitanian/status/49509618010963968">@Tripolitanian
Libyan
Please don't forget about #Misrata, tanks have already entered city! If we lose this city #Gaddafi will try & split the country East-West
5 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/Tripolitanian/status/49510708785840128">@Tripolitanian
Libyan
It's funny how now that the coalition is helping the rebels, people are getting mad, but before that, they couldn't care less. | #Libya
1 minute ago

http://twitter.com/#!/freelibyanyouth/status/49507510813605888">@freelibyanyouth
Shabab Libya
@freelibyaa @IbnOmar2005 PEople know when their loved ones were taken and who actually killed them, and so does god. #gaddafi is a dog.
8 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/freelibyanyouth/status/49291969532395520">@freelibyanyouth
Shabab Libya
@BBCWorld I am offended by media calling actions of allied forces "war on Libya" - allied forces stand WITH #Libya - #Gaddafi is NOT Libya
14 hours ago

http://twitter.com/#!/FromJoanne/status/49508898973032448">@FromJoanne
Joanne
My Libyan Sis 2 brothers were napped from home last night They will be FORCED 2 b part of the Gaddafi "1 milion armed" Libyans #febr17
5 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/FromJoanne/status/49509258051592192">@FromJoanne
Joanne
The 2 Tripoli brothers have never held more of a weapon then a knive in their hands and now will hve guns This wil get REAL scary #febr17
4 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49505282711240705">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
AJA: #Gaddafi forces and snipers all over #Musrata many attacks and random shootings, even at ambulances, Its v.hard to leave ur home #Libya
21 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49506525324128256">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
#Gaddafi is a SOB;using old bodies on stateTV pretending they were killed by US missiles;but have bullet shots all over body #Libya #tripoli
16 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49507297357074433">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
@freelibyanyouth Yeah I watched them the ones i saw bullets on back, on chest but missiles cant do that;i just switches channels lol
13 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49508412723175424">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
If amr moussa wants to play mother teresa and pretend to care about civilian being killed he would have stopped #Gaddafi years ago.
9 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49510282208346112">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
@ChangeInLibya Most of them have bullet wounds.. he really thinks ppl are stupid all these lies are just becoming frustrating
2 minutes ago

http://twitter.com/#!/IbnOmar2005/status/49510648366907392">@IbnOmar2005
Ibn Omar
@laylaamed Insh'allah Hopefully they attack his base some more and wipe him and his sick family off the face of the planet
1 minute ago

[pinboy3niner]

34. CURRENT TIME IN LIBYA = 7:01 PM SUNDAY, MARCH 20

Libya time = EDT +6 hours, PDT +9 hours, GMT +2 hours

[pinboy3niner]

35. The Guardian update on journalists missing/detained/killed in Libya

5.04pm

An update on the situation for foreign press in Libya. The Agence France-Press news agency says two of their journalists and another photographer who was travelling with them have gone missing while reporting on fighting between Gaddafi forces and rebels.

AFP says Dave Clarke and photographers Roberto Schmidt and Joe Raedle (who works for Getty Images) went missing before meeting Gadaffi opponents on Saturday. The three were working near the city of Tobruk, in eastern Libya, near the border with Egypt – an area largely under rebel control.

Ali Hassan Al Jaber, a cameraman for Al-Jazeera was shot dead last week in what appeared to be an ambush while another Libyan journalist was also reportedly killed <Mohammed Nabbous, confirmed killed>.

Four journalists for The New York Times were detained by government forces in the east of Libya last week but although the authorities said they would be released there has been no confirmation of this.

Ian Black told us earlier that the movements of journalists are being tightly controlled.


http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[pinboy3niner]

37. AJE video: Eyewitness report--tank assault on Misurata

6:52pm As Gaddafi's tanks roll into the rebel-held city of Misurata, there are reports of many injuries amid fierce street fighting.

Mohamed, a member of the city's civil community, speaks to Al Jazeera by phone, and describes what has happened in his city over the past day.


Witness phones from Misurata (7:00)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkwTcioh-uU&feature=player_embedded

[pinboy3niner]

38. Revolutionary fighters advancing from Benghazi to break siege of Ajdabiya

7:10pm

Armed anti-Gaddafi fighters are agains advancing east from the city of Benghazi, in an attempt to break the siege imposed by Gaddafi's troops on Ajdabiya, Al Jazeera Arabic reports.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[joshcryer]

39. Now that the playing ground is evened out, let's see how Gaddafi's forces fare.

No more weapons from the west.

France did the right thing and is atoning for their sins.

DON'T SELL WEAPONS TO TYRANTS (best not to sell them at all but politically it is useful, which fucking sucks).

[pinboy3niner]

42. The Guardian: Still no word on Al Jazeera journos held by Libyan authorities in Tripoli

5.16pm:

Still no more on Kamel Atalua, the British cameraman being held by Libyan authorities in Tripoli, along with other members of his Al Jazeera reporting team: cameraman Ammar al-Hamdan and correspondents Lotfi al-Messaoudi and Ahmed Vall Ould Addin.

Al Jazeera's director general Wadah Khanfar tweeted:

"We're doing everything possible to secure the release of our colleagues from the Gaddafi authorities. We want them back immediately."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[pinboy3niner]

43. LAT Op-Ed ~ Doyle McManus: Letting others lead in Libya

Op-Ed

Doyle McManus: Letting others lead in Libya


The intervention in Libya could be a new model of collaboration in the handling of international crises.


By Doyle McManus

March 20, 2011


At first glance, it looks as if the Obama administration has executed a sudden turnabout in its attitude toward military intervention in Libya. Two weeks ago, U.S. officials were talking about all the reasons a no-fly zone was a bad idea; now, they're all for it.

In fact, the administration was closely divided all along — torn between a desire to help Libya's rebels overthrow Moammar Kadafi and a fear of getting the United States enmeshed in another messy war in the Muslim world.

The core of the problem, to put it brutally, was that the stakes were too low. In traditional foreign policy terms, whether Kadafi won or lost didn't directly affect U.S. interests. We've lived with Kadafi's rule for four decades, and even treated him as something of an ally in the fight against Al Qaeda since 2003. So while President Obama and his aides were rooting for the rebels to win, they weren't willing to lend them the U.S. Air Force to make sure it happened.

The dilemma of "humanitarian intervention" is not a new one; in fact, it's been one of the central problems of U.S. foreign policy since the end of the Cold War. In 1992, then-President George H.W. Bush sent U.S. troops to protect a humanitarian aid mission during a civil war in Somalia, and quickly wished he hadn't. In 1994, then-President Clinton didn't send U.S. troops to stop a genocide in Rwanda, and quickly wished he had. There's no easy answer.


More:
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-mcmanus-column-libya-20110320,0,3418244.column

[tabatha]

44. Thanks for these reports.

Currently, I am too numb to post any more on Libya.

If this ends in a stalemate - then the UN should arrest Gaddafi for war crimes.

[pinboy3niner]

45. The US military is working to hand over control of the Libya operation...

...to "a coalition" in the next few days, an offical tells Reuters.

[joshcryer]

46. Well if Obama does this a lot of people are going to be quite red faced.

Who am I kidding they'll slither away.

[pinboy3niner]

47. CNN: Tripoli under attack now

Heavy anti-aircraft fire began about 5 minutes ago.

[pinboy3niner]

48. Norway's contribution of six F16 fighter jets to set off tomorrow morning

From AJE Libya Live Blog - March 20:

7:39pm

Norway's contribution of six F16 fighter jets to the international air campaign will set off for bases close to the African nation romorrow morning, said Brig. Per Egil Rygg:

"We are also sending 120 pilots, technicians, security personnel and press officers."

Earlier today, Jens Stoltenberg, Norway's prime minister said:

"Norway will take its responsibility. We want to contribute to the resolution being carried out."


Denmark is also sending six F16 jets to join the operation.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[pinboy3niner]

49. International press "can't corroborate in any way" claims of civilian casualties from strikes

8:04pm

Al Jazeera's Anita McNaught, reporting from Tripoli, says she is unable to confirm claims of the Gaddafi regime that last night's bombardment deliberately targeted civilians. She told us:

International press, despite repeated requests, have not been allowed to go to the sites of the airstrikes and can't corroborate in any way what happened last night.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[joshcryer]

50. You'd think that Gaddafi would be happy to allow press to see the slaughter of innocent civilians.

Al Jazeera is not buying his crap. Fucking piece of shit asshole criminal.

[pinboy3niner]

51. British Foreign Secretary responds to criticism of coalition bombardment of Libya

From AJE Libya Live Blog - March 20:

6.13pm:

The Foreign Office has released a statement in response to criticism of the bombardment of Libya by the Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa, who said that the organisation wanted to see "the protection of civilians and not the bombardment of more civilians".

The Foreign Office said:

Unlike Qadhafi, the coalition is not attacking civilians. The UN resolution authorises all necessary measures to protect the Libyan people.

For the No Fly Zone to be enforced safely, it is necessary to carry out carefully targeted operations against Libyan air defence capabilities.

All missions are meticulously planned to ensure every care is taken to avoid civilian casualties. We will continue to work with our Arab partners to enforce the resolution for the good of the Libyan people.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[pinboy3niner]

52. Live, CNN moments ago: Arab League reaffirms support for NFZ nt

[joshcryer]

53. Heh. ProSense called it.

[pinboy3niner]

54. The Guardian: UK defense sources confirm RAF taking part in the latest strikes in Libya

6.44pm:

British military aircraft are taking part in the latest strikes in Libya, UK defence sources have confirmed to the Guardian.

It's not clear where they are focussing their fire, but some fairly intensive anti-aircraft fire has been blazing away in Tripoli in the last half hour.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[pinboy3niner]

55. The Italian tugboat and its crew of 11 which had been seized in Tripoli have now left the port

From AJE Libya Live Blog - March 20:

8:42pm

The Italian tugboat and its crew of 11 which had been seized in Tripoli have now left the port - accompanied by people claiming to represent the port authority and Libyan military officials, the ship's owner has said. The crew "are fine and are on board the ship," said the Augusta Offshore company.

We are in constant contact with the foreign ministry's crisis unit to cooperate and we are coordinating with the authorities.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[pinboy3niner]

56. BREAkING: Gaddafi's forces have announced they will begin a ceasefire at at 7pm (GMT)

It's the second announcement of a ceasefire by the regime's forces, but one thing that might also be significant about the statement, which was announced at a press conference in Tripoli, is the fact that there doesn't appear to be any mention of Gaddafi.

Could it also be an attempt to suggest that the initiative is in the hands of a wider circle than just Gaddafi himself.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[joshcryer]

58. How about that.

[tabatha]

60. Jeez, I hope so.

That would be a worthwhile end - and I am sure the Libyan people will be grateful.

Now just get Gaddafi on war crimes.

[Iterate]

78. I think we get it: attack by day, cease fire at night

Who would have guessed the Khamis and mercenaries only work 9 to 5?

[joshcryer]

80. In complete defiance of the UN resolution.

[joshcryer]

57. Chomsky interview, slightly dated, but he said that if they asked for involvement it'd be OK:

Unfortunately he did buy into Gaddafi's mediation rhetoric and didn't think involvement would happen at all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=II9lo--U550

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKHKDudUndY

[tabatha]

59. Light a candle for Mohammed Nabbous

http://www.libyafeb17.com/

top right.

[pinboy3niner]

61. Four Qatari jets will "soon" be arriving in the Libyan "zone of operations"

From AJE:

9:35pm

More on those Qatari planes.

A French military spokesman has said four jets are expected to join the international campaign to enforce UN Security Council resolution 1973 - and will "soon" be arriving in the Libyan "zone of operations". Laurent Teisseire told reporters:

As announced by the Qatari authorities, it will deploy four planes in the zone to be able to take part in the operations, which is another sign of Arab participation in this international operation to protect civilians.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[joshcryer]

62. We're expecting a press conference to be given at the Pentagon in the next half hour or so.

9:40pm We're expecting a press conference to be given at the Pentagon in the next half hour or so. We'll bring you anything interesting they have to say right here on our liveblog...

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[pinboy3niner]

65. CNN broke away--missile strikes and AA fire breaking out in Tripoli

Earlier, reporters said they heard only AA fire, no explosions. Now CNN's Nic Robertson is reporting there are definitely missile strikes.

[joshcryer]

67. Sounds like they definitely pulled the cease fire to try to prevent this.

[pinboy3niner]

79. AJE'sAnita McNaught in Tripoli still hears AA fire right now, though not as heavy nt

[inna]

63. i liked Catherina's ones much better.

not even opening your stuff again.

[joshcryer]

66. There was better coverage before. I've been combatting the anti-revolutionary stuff lately.

[tabatha]

64. Josh and Pinboy - thanks for the time and effort you put into these.

And so graciously picking up the load from Catherina.

I found both of them very well done.

[Dansk]

68. I join Tabatha

in thanking both Josh and Pinboy for your efforts. I, along with others, whom I know, who may not actively post, find your updates helpful and informative!

Thank you!

[pinboy3niner]

70. Thanks, tabatha and Dansk

Both Catherina and Josh have done a great job on the OPs, and they both deserve credit for that.

I see the purpose of these threads as being informative on the events that are occurring (as opposed to other threads involving intense discussion and debate of opposing viewpoints). We've been pretty fortunate, so far, in keeping things on that level.

Welcome to DU, Dansk! We're honored to be the subject of your first post.

:hi:

[joshcryer]

71. Yeah, I'm trying to get back on page, I didn't sleep for 30 hours now.

But I want to stay up for Day 32.

[pinboy3niner]

73. Hey, I'm older than you--I REALLY need my beauty sleep, LOL!

I'm afraid we may both crash at the same time!

[joshcryer]

74. Eh, it'll be all good. :)

Not like DU is too receptive right now of actual info.

[catchnrelease]

83. I agree

Thanks to those who are getting the information to us....it is MUCH appreciated. These posts are the first thing I check for (and recommend) when I come to DU these days.

[joshcryer]

69. Was watching AJE, the strategy is definitely regime change.

They're basically allowing the opposition to advance, and then if the Gaddafi forces move on the opposition, they attack. It's very very no win for the Gaddafi forces, but it's certainly far beyond a NFZ. Very interesting tactic. More tyrants need to face this.

[joshcryer]

72. The Gaddafi regime will continue to be able to fly helicopters, despite the no fly zone

8.20pm: The Gaddafi regime will continue to be able to fly helicopters, despite the no fly zone, the Pentagon press conference has been told by Vice Admiral William Courtney.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/20/libya-air-strikes-live-updates

[joshcryer]

75. A Reuters reporter says sporadic explosions and heavy gunfire have been heard in central Benghazi

2041: A Reuters reporter says sporadic explosions and heavy gunfire have been heard in central Benghazi for the last 20 minutes.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12776418

[pinboy3niner]

76. AJE: Turkey is the latest state to say it will "contribute to international action" in Libya

9:52pm

Turkey is the latest state to say it will "contribute to international action" in Libya. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he hoped military operations would be over "as quickly as possible". The country's foreign ministry said:

Turkey will make the national contribution it deems necessary and appropriate to the applications of UN resolutions 1970 and 1973, taking into account the security of the Libyan people.

To this end, preparations and works are under way in cooperation with our civilian and military structures.

http://blogs.aljazeera.net/live/africa/libya-live-blog-march-20-0

[joshcryer]

77. More than 3,800 refugees crossed into Egypt from Libya on Saturday, up about 70%

2053: More than 3,800 refugees crossed into Egypt from Libya on Saturday, up about 70% on the numbers seen in recent days, according to UN officials. A spokeswoman for the UN's refugee agency said staff at the border saw some Libyans stay in their cars overnight and then return to Libya on Sunday morning.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12776418

[joshcryer]

81. Lufti, an activist in London writes: "There should be no ceasefire - Gaddafi cannot be trusted"

2109: Lufti, an activist in London helping to co-ordinate the Libyan resistance, writes: "There should be no ceasefire - Gaddafi cannot be trusted. He is playing games and trying to buy time. A ceasefire will put everything back where we started from. I hope the coalition keeps up the good job they are doing."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12776418

[joshcryer]

82. Video of injured child in Benghazi:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=119025168173043

[pinboy3niner]

84. Libya declares new ceasefire as West prepares more strikes

Source: AFP

Libya declares new ceasefire as West prepares more strikes

by Imed Lamloum Imed Lamloum – 1 hr 21 mins ago


TRIPOLI (AFP) – Allied forces prepared on Sunday for new raids on Libya to enforce a UN resolution aimed at halting its leader Moamer Kadhafi's attacks on civilians in suppressing a month-long uprising.

As warplanes took off from Italian bases and anti-aircraft guns roared in Tripoli, the Libyan military announced a new ceasefire, saying it was heeding an African Union call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

"I sincerely hope and urge the Libyan authorities to keep their word," United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said in a swift reaction during a visit to Libya's eastern neighbour Egypt.

"They have been continuing to attack the civilian population. This (offer) has to be verified and tested," he told a news conference in Cairo.

...


But his troops continued attacking the rebel stronghold of Benghazi, prompting US, British and French forces to intervene with air strikes from Saturday night in line with the resolution.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20110320/wl_africa_afp/libyaconflict_20110320202511

[Iterate]

85. iyad_elbaghdadi... source says that #Gaddafi has been moved to Ghadamis ...

@iyad_elbaghdadi: My source says that #Gaddafi has been moved to Ghadamis on the Algerian border.

Overall his reliability has been above par.

[joshcryer]

86. This is an old rumor, iyad has been fairly inconsistent, triploitian is more accurate.

[Iterate]

87. thx

I saw it as an original tweet and thought it was news. Tough to keep up.

While I'm here, I heard on BBC World News (about 2 hours ago) a rep from Libyan Human Rights Watch who estimated anti-Gadaffi support at about 90%. Can't find a clip or source, but if you see it let me know.

[joshcryer]

88. Day 32 here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x701502