LITTLE ROCK — With inspiring determination and grit, Libyan citizens literally are putting their lives on the line in an effort to topple their longtime dictator, Moammar Gadhafi.
The chilling prediction by one of Gadhafi’s sons that the streets would “run with blood” reportedly became all too true within moments of the speech Monday, as armed government mercenaries turned automatic weapons on crowds of protesters.
Further reports of Gadhafi loyalists commandeering ambulances to cruise the streets of Tripoli and shoot civilians show just how much the situation hasunraveled. The push for more democratic institutions won’t be easy, as evidenced by Libya’s suffering. It’s vital, therefore, that U.S. officials support the drive for democracy in any way possible.
Given the horrific events in Libya, certainly, there is no way back for Gadhafi. Despite his defiance in a rambling, largely incoherent speech Tuesday, in which he blamed everyone but himself for the slaughter of pro-democracy demonstrators, Gadhafi’s only way to cling to power now is with brute force. About the only test of will worth seeing Gadhafi pass is his vow to “die as a martyr.”
Editorial, Pages 16 on 02/24/2011