U.N.: Thousands May Have Died in Libyan Crackdown

Headlines for February 25, 2011                                     Democracy Now

 United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay is warning thousands of people may have been killed in Colonel Muammar Gaddafi’s assault on the growing Libyan uprising. The United Nations is also warning Libya’s food supply network is on the brink of collapse. Deadly clashes are ongoing as anti-government forces close in on the capital city of Tripoli. According to Al Jazeera, fighting appears to be the most intense 30 miles west in the town of al-Zawiya. In a rambling telephone interview with state television, Gaddafi blamed al-Qaeda and hallucinogenic drugs for the revolt against his rule.

Muammar Gaddafi: "They give them pills. These pills in Tripoli are called 'taxis of Al Jadeeda,' because when you take them, you will not wake up unless you reach Al Jadeeda. These young people do not realize they have been killing because they are under the influence of the drugs."

Protesters Plan Rally in Libyan Capital

Protesters are said to be preparing for a major demonstration in Tripoli today. Most of eastern Libya remains under the rebellion’s control. In the port city of Benghazi, protesters have set up neighborhood councils after ousting Gaddafi’s forces.

Protester: "My people are dying in here, because Muammar Gaddafi is killing us, because we are dying, because we are fighting ’til we die. We have no mercy—he has no mercy anymore."

U.N. Security Council, Rights Panel Holds Sessions on Libya

Both the U.N. Security Council and U.N. Human Rights Council are holding sessions on Libya today. Measures under consideration include the imposition of a no-fly zone over Tripoli, increased sanctions, and investigation of the Gaddafi regime for "crimes against humanity." U.S. State Department spokesperson P.J. Crowley said the United States backs international pressure on the Libyan government.

P.J. Crowley: "We support expelling Libya from the Human Rights Council. The Libyan government has violated the rights of its people. Taking this step continues the increased isolation that the Libyan government is facing, including announcements made yesterday by the Arab League and the African Union."

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/2/25/headlines