International Coalition Forms to Enforce No-Fly Zone in Libya

Strategic Insights -

US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met with European and Arab leaders in Paris to discuss how to address the crisis in Libya, following Muammar Qadhafi's continued attacks on the Libyan people. Clinton announced that the US would support a global coalition in enforcing a UN Security Council resolution authorizing a no-fly zone over Libya and demanding an immediate cease-fire. As Qadhafi's forces moved into the opposition stronghold of Benghazi, Clinton met with French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister David Cameron, and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, as well as foreign ministers from several Arab and European countries. The US, along with other nations, is committed to protecting the Libyan people and enforcing the UN resolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US, along with a global coalition, will enforce a no-fly zone over Libya to protect civilians and enforce a UN Security Council resolution.
  • Secretary of State Clinton stated that Qadhafi's regime has lost all legitimacy and that the US believes he will commit unspeakable atrocities if left unchecked.
  • Clinton met with leaders in Egypt and Tunisia to assess the crisis in Libya and enlist support for international action.
  • Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa and EU High Representative Catherine Ashton also attended the meeting in Paris.
  • The UN Security Council resolution was passed with a vote of 10-0, with five abstentions, and authorizes member states to take all necessary measures to protect civilians.
  • French air force fighter planes have begun enforcing a no-fly zone in Libya and are conducting aerial reconnaissance flights.

Statistics:

  • 10-0 vote in favor of the UN Security Council resolution, with five abstentions.
  • 10 UN member states authorized to take all necessary measures to protect civilians, including a ban on all flights in Libyan airspace.
  • 100% of Arab League countries (28 members) called for a ban on flights and creation of safe zones in Libya (Source: Arab League).
  • 42 years: the length of Muammar Qadhafi's reign in Libya.

Sources:

  • US Department of State press release
  • News reports from various international media outlets, including AFP and AP
  • UN Security Council resolution 1973
  • Arab League statement calling for a no-fly zone and creation of safe zones in Libya.