Reply #64: Libyan rebels urge rescue for besieged Misurata [View All]

[pinboy3niner]

Libyan rebels urge rescue for besieged Misurata


By Carsten Hoffmann Apr 7, 2011, 15:09 GMT


Benghazi, Libya - Libyan rebels are entreating NATO-led forces to free the population of the besieged and embattled city of Misurata, caught in a stranglehold by troops under Libyan leader Moamer Gaddafi for more than 40 days.

The rebels' military leader, Gaddafi's former interior minister Abdul Fattah Younis, says the inhabitants are without medical supplies, water and electricity and have only light weapons for self- defence.

A boat sent to Misurata by the rebels has been intercepted and turned back by the Turkish navy, which is enforcing the United Nations-mandated arms embargo off the Libyan coast.

'Misurata is facing annihilation,' Younis warned.

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It is hoped that a ceasefire will allow people a chance to flee. Up to now, injured inhabitants of Misurata have been able to leave only by sea. A Turkish ship entered the harbour several days ago and evacuated some 230 badly injured people. Maimed and traumatized, they were laid on makeshift hospital beds in the hold.

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http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/africa/news/article_1631446.php/Libyan-rebels-urge-rescue-for-besieged-Misurata