The UN Security Council votes on Libya. Live Reflections (Shift4)
The Security Council adopted — by 10 votes for, none against and 5 abstentions — resolution 1973 authorizing the use of force to protect civilians in Libya, in particular by establishing a no-fly zones and safe area above the cities, particularly in Benghazi.
To follow the UN Security Council debate on Libya live.
(shift1 0h10) Germany abstains!
Voted for: France, United Kingdom, Lebanon, United States (sponsors of the resolution) as well as South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, Gabon, Nigeria, Portugal.
China and Russia abstained (thus refusing to use their veto and block the resolution), as well as India and Brazil. More striking in this landscape is the abstention of Germany, which has not really honored its past, refusing to protect civilians other than by words. Its representative spoke before the Security Council to defend "the political process, the continuation of sanctions (but) not the use of force" His representative in the Security Council underlined the danger of a military operation and repeated that he would not participate in such an operation.
(shift2 0h30) A text that remains ambitious
According to the first information, the text of the resolution finally voted takes again the essence of the provisions of the project - such as we report it. A paragraph was even added, explicitly citing Benghazi. It thus authorizes the Member States to "take all necessary measures ... to protect civilians and areas populated by civilians under threat of attack in Libya, including Benghazi— which allows for pre-emptive strikes — but it excludes the presence of an occupying force.
(maj4 1h30/2h/8h) European minimum service
« The European Union is ready to implement the resolution (1973) within the framework of its mandate and competences. The European Council of 24-25 March and the March 21 Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in Libya and adopt the necessary decisions in this regard. » said Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, and Cathy Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs. It's the minimum ! The COPS, the political and security committee of the EU will meet on Friday March 18, in "ambassador" format on the subject, to prepare the meeting of ministers (in particular the extension of economic sanctions). While a meeting of NATO ambassadors will come together to tune the violins between allies, take stock of the countries ready to participate in the "no-fly zones", examine in particular whether the Alliance will make its Awacs available (and under what conditions, in particular financial).
(update3 1h) Commentary: Does fear change sides?
The first effect of this resolution is immediate. It shows the Libyan rebels, particularly in Benghazi, that they are no longer alone but have concrete support. You could see the difference: several hundred (thousands) of people gathered in Benghazi in the street with multiple flags (including tricolors); a few dozen Gaddafi supporters kissing the photo of their stereotypical leader in Tripoli. The signal given by the resolution is much larger than one might suppose. He opens the lid of terror that Kadhafi placed on his people. Now, we will have to monitor Gaddafi's reactions, in particular the possible measures of retaliation towards Europe, including the most ferocious (terrorism), unless he chooses flight or sudden conciliation in order to strike better afterwards.
Read also:
The day when Nicolas Sarkozy became (finally) President.
French flags in Benghazi pity that the stars on the azure are not present, one day Europe will live up to our expectations!