The Streets of Tripoli Give Way to Rebel Celebrations
Major news sources including CNN, Reuters, Fox News, and Yahoo! reported Sunday (August 21, 2011 EST) that rebel fighters flooded Tripoli following the collapse of Gaddafi's largely mercenary-composed army based in the Libyan capital. Muammar Gaddafi's fighters, considered quite formidable and fierce up to that point, put up surprisingly meager resistance as the rebel assault advanced through the city. In the wake of what some prematurely declared a victory, an eery scene unfolded with about 100 to 150 rebels celebrating in Tripoli by firing weapons into the air, cheering in the streets with the Libyan flag, and defacing images of Gaddafi in Green Square and surrounding areas.
Threats of Retaliation by Gaddafi Forces Difficult to Assess
Correspondents on the scene remained skeptical, however, about how complete and long lasting this victory might be, especially in the shadow of Gaddafi's consistently tough talk and open threats of widespread bloodshed should any efforts to depose him be advanced. As history clearly attests, Gaddafi has both the means and mindset to carry out such menacing threats. Moreover, reporters on the scene struggled to uncover the whereabouts of Gaddafi's sizeable military force said to number 65,000 strong. Following the invasion, various states of chaos and celebration descended upon Tripoli's Green Square while it remained unclear how fervent Gaddafi loyalists would be in future attempts to support what appears to be his faultering regime.
Uncharacteristically Easy Rebel Advance
According to Reuters, a rebel convoy penetrated the western neighborhoods of Tripoli earlier Sunday brandishing firearms, which they shot into the air. Al-Jazeera television reported that rebels quickly laid claim to the vast majority of the city except for Bab Al-Aziziya-Jazeera, a Gaddafi stronghold. Considering how quickly loyalist forces folded in the majority of the city, there is great speculation about what these forces fiercely fighting in Bab Al-Aziziya-Jazeera may be attempting to protect.
CNN and Fox News also reported that two of Gaddafi's sons were taken into custody by rebel forces although the Libyan leader remained at large.
Gaddafi Broadcasts Rally and Bully the Libyan People
During the day, Gaddafi took to the airways attempting to rally support for his regime. He addressed his countrymen in an attempt to inspire fear of the advancing rebel onslaught stating, "I am afraid if we don't act, they will burn Tripoli." He also threatened, "There will be no more water, food, electricity or freedom."
White House Response Yet to Come
The message from the White House remained brief. Colonel Gaddafi must go. The U.S. State Department monitored the situation very closely and asserted that Gaddafi's days were numbered and that the people of Libya deserve a humane, just government. While President Obama planned to make a statement once the situation on the ground becomes more clearly defined, there were no immediate plans for a White House press conference.
Engrid Whisenant - As a Classical Musician, college lecturer in comparative literature, and Ph.D. Candidate in Geography, I explore a variety of interests in ...
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