International Pressure Increases on Libya's Gadhafi
VOA News March 01, 2011
World pressure is mounting against Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi in the wake of his government's crackdown on opposition forces.
The U.N. General Assembly will discuss a draft resolution later Tuesday on the proposed suspension of Libya from the Human Rights Council. The resolution expresses "deep concern" about human rights violations in Libya.
Meanwhile, Austria has joined a growing list of countries announcing plans to freeze the assets of the Libyan leader and his close associates in line with EU sanctions. Libya is estimated to have at least $1.6 billion in deposits in Austrian banks.
Also Tuesday, Germany said it would freeze a bank account worth about $2.8 million that is held by one of Mr. Gadhafi's sons.
A top U.S. diplomat said Tuesday that the United States will maintain economic and political pressure on Mr. Gadhafi. In a series of interviews, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Susan Rice said the goal is to weaken his hold on power.
U.S. officials say "all options" are under consideration, including the imposition of a no-fly zone to prevent Mr. Gadhafi's air force from attacking rebels who control eastern Libya and parts of the west. British Prime Minister David Cameron said London also is working on a plan for a no-fly zone over Libya.
Despite his increasing international isolation, the Libyan leader won some diplomatic support Monday from a longtime ally in Latin America. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said he will not condemn Mr. Gadhafi, and he accused the U.S. of preparing to invade Libya to steal its oil.
Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.
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