Reply #102: Libyan Rebels have CONCEDED Ground Since Bombing Began

[JackRiddler]

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x4936980

Oops.

Source: The Independent

Fresh diplomatic efforts are under way to try to end Libya's bloody civil war, with the UN special envoy flying to Tripoli to hold talks after Britain followed France in accepting that Muammar Gaddafi cannot be bombed into exile.

The change of stance by the two most active countries in the international coalition is an acceptance of realities on the ground. Despite more than four months of sustained air strikes by Nato, the rebels have failed to secure any military advantage. Colonel Gaddafi has survived what observers perceive as attempts to eliminate him and, despite the defection of a number of senior commanders, there is no sign that he will be dethroned in a palace coup.

The regime controls around 20 per cent more territory than it did in the immediate aftermath of the uprising on 17 February.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/libyan-rebels-have-conceded-ground-since-bombing-began-2326524.html

Sorry about reality intruding on your weekly victory thread, NATO people. I'm sure the Gaddafi forces are utterly demoralized, the population of Tripoli is secretly against the regime and anyway much smaller than claimed, and that the key stronghold you keep expecting to fall to the rebel onslaught is teetering.

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