We must look beyond the conflict in Libya
As I have watched the news about the destruction and violence in Libya I have found it hard to decide whether the country needed more pressure from the international community in the form of the UN mandate.
I am not saying action should not be taken against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi and his forces, but the international community must realise that, when it comes to help, this country does not just need military assistance.
Tunisia and Egypt were fortunate in that, apart from close media attention, they had leaders who were more it touch with reality than Gaddafi.
Now that he has nowhere to run and still has control over his troops, he has been fighting like a cornered rat. The people of Libya have paid a heavy price to keep alive their revolution against him. Many of the rebels have persevered despite having little in the way of basic necessities and medical aid. The UN and other organisations should address these problems as quickly as possible.
The rebels also lack military support. Although allied air power has ended Gaddafi's control of the skies, his land forces still pose a huge threat. His soldiers show no inhibitions when it comes to firing on densely populated urban areas where there are more non-combatants than fighters.
If the UN mandate is to really help the Libyan people, then humanitarian aid must reach those in need. The aim should be that a new Libya can emerge from the war, where economic stability exists.
