10,000 Indonesian Muslims protest against Gaddafi

Jakarta: More than 10,000 Indonesians have rallied peacefully to support pro-democracy movements in Libya, Yemen and Bahrain.

The crowd, organised by an Islamic political party, expressed opposition to the international air strikes that have checked Libya's military and helped rebels gain control of key towns.

But they also called for the immediate resignation of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and the protection of civilians.

Justice and Prosperity Party leader Hidayat Nur Wahid told the crowd Sunday the Gaddafi dictatorship must be ousted to stop a humanitarian tragedy.

Indonesia's own "people power" revolt toppled long-ruling dictator and Washington ally General Suharto in 1998.