The continuation of the fighting in Libya between the regime and the rebels will prove to be counter-productive in the long-term. This is being said given that a long-drawn battle between the two sides would have repercussions which would be difficult to address as the issue concerns the future of the country.
UN chief Ban Ki-moon has called for ‘an immediate, verifiable ceasefire' in Libya, announcing that the regime of Muammar Gaddafi has agreed to receive a visit by a special envoy.
The envoy is to undertake "negotiations for a peaceful resolution of the conflict and unimpeded access for humanitarian workers", said Ban. He demanded full access for UN humanitarian workers in Libya and called on Gaddafi's forces to stop attacking civilians.
The current situation in Libya is one that entails great uncertainty. And it is this uncertainty that is making the situation dangerous and alarming. Thus far, both the regime and the rebels have stood their ground and no single party has appeared as a clear winner in the fight. And in these clashes, it is the civilian population that is obviously paying the highest price.
So far, the attacks against Gaddafi's troops continue with Nato insisting on abiding by its mandate of protecting civilians. Yet it is obvious that the conflict has entered a stage of standstill, which is unwelcome. Therefore, what is required now is an internationally coordinated effort to bring about an end to the situation on the ground in Libya as it cannot continue as it is. This will warrant bringing all the parties concerned together to find a way out of the crisis. It goes without saying that the urgency of addressing this issue is determined by the humanitarian situation and the suffering of thousands.
