Libya: bombs are causing civilian casualties, says bishop

March 31, 2011

The apostolic vicar of Tripoli has renewed his criticism of military intervention in Libya and called upon the international community to turn to the African Union to mediate in the crisis.

“To arm one part of the Libyan people against the other does not seem a moral solution to me,” said Bishop Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli. “As for the action of the coalition, it does not come to my mind to say to bomb in order to defend the civilian population. No matter how accurate the bombing of military targets, it also undoubtedly involves bombing homes in the district … The military actions are causing casualties among those civilians who these military operations are trying to protect.”

“I repeat: if you want a peaceful solution the African Union, the Arab League and some local bodies all need to be involved.”

 

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Further information:

• “The road to peace passes through the African Union,” says the Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli, who adds: “the humanitarian bombs are creating civilian casualties” (Fides)