28-04-2024 12:03 PM Jerusalem Timing

NTC Chief Asks NATO to Stay on, Secure Libya from Gaddafi Loyalists

NTC Chief Asks NATO to Stay on, Secure Libya from Gaddafi Loyalists

Arguing that loyalists of Muammar Gaddafi still pose a threat to Libya, interim leader Mustafa Abdul Jalil urged NATO on Wednesday to continue its campaign in the country till the year’s end.

Arguing that loyalists of Muammar Gaddafi still pose a threat to Libya, interim leader Mustafa Abdul Jalil urged NATO on Wednesday to continue its campaign in the country till the year’s end.
At a Doha conference of military allies of National Transitional Council (NTC),

Abdul Jalil said:"We hope (NATO) will continue its campaign until at least the end of this year to serve us and neighboring countries”.
This request is aimed at "ensuring that no arms are infiltrated into those countries and to ensure the security of Libyans from some remnants of Gaddafi's forces who have fled to nearby countries," the head of NTC added.


The NTC is also seeking help from NATO in "developing Libya's defense and security systems, Abdul Jalil told the conference.


In Brussels, diplomats said that NATO had decided to delay a formal decision to end Libyan air operations until Friday after the NTC's request for an extension and a Russian demand for UN consultations.


NATO's decision-making body, the North Atlantic Council (NAC)"will meet with partners this Friday to discuss the Libya mission and take a formal decision," NATO spokeswoman Oana Lungescu told AFP news agency.