International Community Paves Way for Arming Libyan Rebels

Strategic Insights -

Nations from nearly 40 countries convened in London to discuss the next moves against Colonel Gaddafi's regime, as US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton suggested that UN resolutions allowed for the "legitimate transfer of arms" to the rebels, while emphasizing that no decision had been made by the US on arming the rebels. The move has delighted Libyan opposition leaders, who were in London to press Western governments to provide arms. International partners are concerned that unless the rebels get outside arms, they may be unable to overthrow the Gaddafi regime, which still has strong support in the capital, Tripoli.

Key Takeaways:

  • The international community is considering arming Libyan rebels, with the US Secretary of State suggesting that UN resolutions allow for the transfer of arms.
  • The UK, France, and Qatar have indicated a willingness to supply weapons to the opposition, with the condition that they be used to "protect civilians."
  • Libyan opposition leaders, including Guma El-Gamaty, UK coordinator for the Libyan Interim National Council (INC), have pressed Western governments to provide arms, stating that they desperately need weapons to overthrow the Gaddafi regime.
  • There are divisions within the international community over a plan to provide a safe-haven for Gaddafi if he were to go into exile, with some countries opposing the idea and the Libyan opposition also rejecting it.
  • The London meeting agreed to consider more sanctions against Gaddafi, to be directed at "individuals and entities associated with the regime."

Statistics:

  • Nearly 40 countries attended the London meeting to discuss the next moves against Colonel Gaddafi's regime.
  • The UN resolution allows for the transfer of arms to the rebels, but this is subject to verification that they are used to "protect civilians."
  • The Libyan Interim National Council (INC) has expressed desperation for arms, stating that they "are driving regular cars and [do]n't have any armor at all – otherwise we would finish him in a few days."
  • The ICC has jurisdiction over 190 countries, but there are 22 African nations outside its jurisdiction, where Gaddafi could potentially seek asylum.

Sources:

  • The Guardian: "Libya: US and French foreign ministers back arming rebels"
  • BBC News: "Libya: Gaddafi backs London summit"
  • Al Jazeera: "Libya: Opponents reject plan to give Gaddafi safe passage"