Landmark Events: Libyan Violence Escalates

Anti-government protests across North Africa and the Middle East saw the first major escalation of violence today. International forces are now involved.

As Muammar Qaddafi rolled toward a crushing victory over Libyan rebels, the United Nations Security Council pondered, then passed a resolution authorizing the use of force to protect whatever Libyan civilians might still be alive.

The resolution, initially requested by the Arab League, was passed on March 17. It authorized a no-fly zone and the use of “all necessary measures… to protect civilians and civilian populated areas under threat of attack in the Libyan Arab Jamhariya, including Benghazi, while excluding an occupation force.”

UN News Centre – Protect Civilians

News coverage this morning, March 20, confirms that U.S. allies have responded with 25 ships in the Mediterranean, RAF Tornado strike jets, and 114 cruise missiles, attacking military targets of Libyan leader Muammar Qaddafi.

In related coverage, the Arab League reportedly complains that the violence has caused civilian deaths.