'Libya crisis may create space for al-Qaeda'

Backing President Barack Obama’s call for Muammar Gaddafi to quit, two top US Senators have asked the authorities here to work with global community to ensure that the Libyan ruler resigns as soon as possible, warning that a protracted stalemate in the strife-torn country may allow al-Qaeda to exploit the chaos.

“It is stated US policy that Gaddafi must go, so now it is critical for the United States, together with our friends and allies, to ensure that he does go — as quickly as possible,” the Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman said in a joint statement.

A protracted and bloody stalemate in Libya would not only be an unnecessary humanitarian disaster with the potential to destabilise a critical region, it could also create space for al-Qaeda and its extremist allies to exploit the chaos, they said.

“If Gaddafi is able to remain in power, it would send a dangerous message that dictators should respond with brutal violence to the peaceful protest movement for universal rights that is sweeping the region and beyond,” the Senators said.

There have been numerous ideas put forward by Gaddafi’s opponents in recent days about how the world might help them survive and prevail — including imposition of a no-fly zone, recognition of a provisional government, provisioning of humanitarian assistance and various forms of security assistance, they noted.

“Which of these we pursue should be determined after urgent consultation with our international partners, including the Arab League, the African Union and NATO, but most of all the Libyan opposition forces themselves (determine it) — and based on the effectiveness, speed and feasibility of implementation. But we should be prepared to support all of them if they hasten the end of bloodshed.”

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