Libya: bishop laments NATO rejection of Ramadan truce
July 22, 2011
The apostolic vicar of Tripoli has decried NATO’s “indifference” to proposals for a Ramadan ceasefire in the conflict in Libya.
“What amazes me is the indifference of NATO and Europe to the proposed ceasefire for Ramadan,” said Bishop Giovanni Martinelli. “For all the Libyans (for or against Gaddafi) Ramadan is a sacred period, and [this] is a sentiment that should be respected.”
The prelate praised NATO’s new practice of warning civilians they will strike any area before bombing takes place.
“Before bombing a certain area, NATO disseminates the area with leaflets to warn people that in the coming days, the area will be bombed,” he said. “People are obviously annoyed because they clearly have to leave the house and find temporary accommodation. But at least there is the concern to avoid innocent victims.”
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Further information:
- "I am amazed by the indifference of NATO and Europe to the proposal of a truce for Ramadan", says Mgr. Martinelli (Fides)
- Will NATO continue bombing Libya in Ramadan? France says ‘Yes’ (Al Arabiya News)
- Turkey seeks Libyan truce before Ramadan (Hurriyet Daily News)
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