Surrounded by tanks, snipers, Libyan hospital is fortress of fear

A photo taken from a YouTube video said to show a patient in the hospital in Misrata, Libya, which is besieged by forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi.

The battle in Libya has reached the doors of Dr. Aiman's clinic in Misrata: A man was killed in its entrance late Wednesday, he said, probably by fire from the tanks that have surrounded the hospital, though it could have been snipers loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi.  

The snipers took up positions on tall buildings around the clinic Wednesday morning, posing a deadly threat to anyone coming in or out, said Aiman, who gave only one name out of concern for his safety.

"We came under attack from two tanks, heavy tanks, that bombed and shelled near the hospital," he told msnbc.com in a Skype call from the hospital in Libya's third-largest city.  "Two bombs fell 2, 3 meters away from the hospital. The situation is very, very bad. We have one person killed just in the entrance."


The most recent round of fighting in Misrata began two days ago, when residents went to a key square to protest against Gadhafi, said engineer Nadir Abuzeid, who is acting as a spokesman for the rebels. Gadhafi forces bombed the square "randomly," killing 21 and wounding 112, he said.

"This is one of the bloodiest days since the protests began February 17," Abuzeid said, speaking through a translator and referring to the date of the first anti-Gadhafi demonstrations in Libya.

The situation at the hospital has steadily deteriorated since, said Aiman. Doctors on Wednesday were treating more than 120 wounded, though the clinic has only 60 beds, he said.

"The injured people -- we stopped counting them, it's overcount. We're just counting the dead people," he said. "Now we are treating people on the floor, no beds. ... We have no empty place. Even our operating theater, we are operating on three patients at the same time. We are operating on trolleys, not on operating beds."

msnbc.com

He said doctors also were "using our flash mobile lights because we are working on a generator ... we don't have enough light."

The clinic no longer had anaesthesia, narcotics or sterilization. The patients were "crying from pain," he said. "We don't have anything we can do for them."

Misrata is located about 125 miles east of Tripoli, and is home to 300,000 people and iron, steel and textile factories, according to Libyaonline.com. Abuzeid said Gadhafi's forces appeared to be trying to establish a secure corridor along the road from Misrata to another strategic coastal city to the east: Sirte.

Gadhafi's forces were squeezing the southern part of Misrata, forcing residents to flee to the north. In the exodus, a man and his four children were killed by tank artillery on Tuesday, Abuzeid said.

"There is fear from this military action and more fear of the snipers ... The people are working together, they are feeding each other, they are helping each other," he said. "Everyone is a target."

Rear Adm. Gerard Hueber, a top U.S. officer in the military campaign in Libya, said international forces were attacking government troops that have been storming population centers in the country. On Wednesday evening, Libyan state television reported a "Crusader colonialist bombing targeting certain civil and military locations" in Tripoli's Tajoura district — scene of some of the heaviest past protests against Gadhafi.

"Libya has been dead for 42 years (since Gadhafi's rule began), so we consider ourselves dead," said Abuzeid. "It's an issue of freedom. We want to get rid of the tyranny."

It's not clear overall how many people have died or been wounded in the conflict in Misrata. But more than 85 people have been kidnapped, Abuzeid said. (Click to read previous article:Pro-Gadhafi kidnap gangs silencing foes.)

Though Hueber said the international coalition's targets included mechanized forces, mobile surface-to-air missile sites and lines of communications from Ajdabiya in the east to Misrata in the west, Aiman said his city remains blockaded.

"We are in an embargo from the west, from the south, from the east. Even our seaport (to the north), we cannot receive any help from" there, he said. "We have nothing."

Aiman said some people had been stuck in the hospital for 10 days because "it's not safe to go out or come into the hospital."

"If anyone goes out, maybe he cannot come back to the hospital ... (he) could be killed, could be kidnapped; maybe they don't have a safe way to get back to the hospital. We don't know about our families. There is no telecommunications, no landlines, nothing here. Everything is cut. The water, the electricity, no food. Nothing here in the city. It's a ghost city now."

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I would think that there MUST be some way for NATO forces to air drop supplies that the hospitals and clinics need.

I'm hearing a lot about the NATO attacks on Tripoli but not much of anything about Misrata.

  • 6 votes
#1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:36 PM EDT

Too dangerous for aircraft to fly low enough to deliver.

Too dangerous for hospital staff to retrieve from streets or the roof.

I agree we need to find a way, just not sure how to do it.

Maybe the best approach is to heavily target tanks and troops in Misrata from helo's, drones, and fixed wing aircraft and drive them out of the city, but expect collateral damage

  • 7 votes
#1.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:26 PM EDT

Linda, And how do those poor folks get those air dropped supplies? You have as much military knowledge as our President I see. They go outside the hospital to get those air-dropped supplies and their killed by tank or sniper fire. Aircraft that fly low enough to be able to get supplies on the roof would be targeted as well. Unfortunately, it looks like Syrian government forces will take this hospital. Only ground troops can save these folks at the hospital and that has been ruled out by all parties so far. Another military action led by politicians. Like Vietnam, when the politicians are making the calls, we are doomed to lose from the start. If they are serious, this needs to be turned over to the military command and control and the politicians should get the hell out of the way. President Obama can still check in by telephone wherever his vacation takes him next. Thank God I'm no longer in the military. Under Obama, the only thing our troops can depend on is indecision. I know this is not our fight, but Obama, after saying this country would not take part in enforcing the no-fly zone, then saying we would participate after France and England committed their armed forces and after many civilians had already been killed, and now doing his best to find a way for the USA to cut and run, our military leadership must be completely confused. Meanwhile, Obama and Hillary keep holding press conferences stating the Syrian madman must go. We are a laughing stock. More importantly, our troops are wondering who the hell is in charge. This dummy voted for Obama and my okole is black and blue from kicking myself for doing so.

  • 9 votes
#1.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:54 PM EDT

If you make enough drops where the LZ is not so hot with instruction to get these supplies to the hospital. It will get there. Also drop in some BMG 50 ies there should be a few that know how to use these it would help take out some snipers

  • 1 vote
#1.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:02 PM EDT

Now MJ wants to arm the rebels. What next? military trainers(CIA). How about Blackwater. I think Haliburton is feeling left out. Obama, Humanitarian of the year.

  • 2 votes
#1.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:14 PM EDT

Oh, boy. Listen to the advice given here. With today's technology, a drone could pinpoint the snipers easily. And if one can be fitted with a Hellfire, surely one could be fitted with a full-on 7.62 x 51 tube to take them out. Tanks are easy. An Apache gunship. Boom boom boom. "50 BMG ies"...

*snort*

Oh, and Ron? The "Syrians" won't take over the hospital. Why? Because it's in LYBIA.

  • 4 votes
#1.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:19 PM EDT

Lanikai - how did Syria find its way into your post? I have not read of any involvement by Syrian troops. And you're right, enough American blood has been shed. Let's take a pass on this one.

  • 1 vote
#1.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:19 PM EDT

Ironically, Osama bin Ladin used the same North African Al Qaeda Base in Benghazi to stage, plan and carry out the horrific truck bombing attack on the US Embassy in Kenya. Now President Obama has been suckered into providing protection and arms to those same Al Qaeda rebel scum-bags.

  • 6 votes
#1.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:20 PM EDT

To do this right, you need troops on the ground. Tossing a few bombs and then packing it up will never be enough.

  • 1 vote
#1.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:22 PM EDT

You got me on that one Ignatz. This old Vietnam Veteran CWO2 Army helicopter pilot is getting tired. When the Libyan government forces take that hospital, nobody in there will come out of it alive. They'll shoot them in the head in their beds and leave them to rot. But that's what many in the Muslim faith are used to. Slaughtering a goat is not much different from slaughtering humans to many of them. And you don't have to be a christian to qualify to be slaughtered either.

  • 3 votes
#1.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:38 PM EDT

Mmmmmm, what happen to the agenda of not hurting innocent people. Bombs don't know who they are killing but as long as "Bojingles" says its OK to kill, That makes it good.

Bojingles has solved our drilling problem in this country, He is giving money to Brazil to drill there.. Are there other dictators in this world that need taking out. Who are we going to appoint to take Gadelfie's place.. We have done so well at other places, let's see, Viet Nam, Iraq, and now Alfganstan, Hmmmm, We'll do good on this one, too..

I don't know anything, only served 2 tours in Nam with the Spc Forces. (speaking from some experience) Understand we had to move fast, Libia was going to attack the US..

  • 2 votes
#1.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:40 PM EDT

John 77, you obviously didn't go to OCS. You don't even know how to spell the country and the dictator of which you speak and don't bother to look it up. You don't know that any innocent civilians have been killed - that has NOT been confirmed by ANY of the allies. Base your opinion on SOMETHING....and Vietnam was a long time ago and had nothing to do with saving the civilians and everything to do with our big bugaboo with crushing the commies.

    #1.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:04 PM EDT

    John 77, enjoy the fact that you gave Lefty here something to rag about. I for one thank you for your service. If every citizen of this country was forced to serve their country at some point in their lives, they might have a different opinion about war and how we participate and how it should be fought. If John had any idea of the role of the Special Forces back then and the dedication of those men that did the dirty work, he would have kept his mouth shut. The Special Forces personnel I worked with in Vietnam and Laos were the absolutely fearless. Sometimes I thought they were crazy. Thank you again!

    • 1 vote
    #1.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:29 PM EDT

    I'll bet if we look into lefty's posting past, we could find ourselves some good anti-military rants. Anybody want to place a wager with me?

    What a difference Obama makes!!

    • 3 votes
    #1.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:30 PM EDT

    Bojingles?

    Racist much?

      #1.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:41 PM EDT

      lindav92683 - I would think that there MUST be some way for NATO forces to air drop supplies that the hospitals and clinics need.

      How about reading the President Obama January 21, 2009, Patriot Acts (plural) especially the Material Support to Terrorists Section. After you do that then read the 2010 US Supreme Court Ruling. Then without admitting it in Public, think to yourself that you are a Hypocrite.

      Lanikai Ron - Syrian government forces will take this hospital.

      Using the shotgun effect, you stumbled on something that you are not supposed to know about. As not the Syrian Government, but distinct Syrians. As those currently involved as "Rebels" (Terrorists for the Libyan Government) Al Quada Saudi Arabia (AQ, over 40%), Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) Algeria (7.2%); and the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG, 18.8%), Al Quada Syria (AQS, 8.1%), Al Quada Yemen (AQY, 8.1%), etc. And if you think SOS Clinton does not know, the crap comes off of her US Department of State Documents. Most of you just refuse to figure out that when suddenly you see a very large prime combatant age population that exceeds that nation's normal population that something is up.

      What the H3LL do you think Libya was doing before the Rebellion, hosting the International Al Quada Franchise Convention?

      Mj-812651 - Also drop in some BMG 50 ies

      As soon as those are used on Hospital grounds, the entire Hospital becomes a target, per 1907 Hague Convention, 1949 Geneva Convention. This is why US Civilians should never make Military Decisions.

      Lanikai Ron - This old Vietnam Veteran CWO2 Army helicopter pilot is getting tired.

      Perhaps you knew my father (RIP, agent orange related), CW4, Rotary Wing and Fixed Wing (he flew Otters at Vietnam), Vietnam 3 tours, he more than likely as an Instructor Pilot (including instrument rating) gave you a "check ride" at least once in your career. He helped develop NOE. His schools, Fort Walters Texas, Fort Rucker Alabama, Hunter Army Air Field Savannah Georgia.

      Or perhaps, on one of those "other" missions you picked up or dropped off some of us LRRP/Rangers near Plei Can. My father almost blew a head gasket when he found out I had received a Selective Service Card, he thought that by his serving numerous tours at Vietnam none of his sons would have to. My older brother got College and ROTC deferred (how I ended up with more time in service than my older brother). That started my long road to becoming a US Military Officer Asymmetric Warfare currently at Afghanistan (we are on standby for possible redeployment elsewhere, as usually the first in, before everyone else (except downed pilots).).

      Lastly, watch this video:

      Battle for Libya (video)

      http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7360502n&tag=contentMain;contentBody

        #1.15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:06 PM EDT

        @Lanikai Ron and John77 - since you gentleman are so sure of the right course of action to take, how about putting that knowledge to use instead of wasting your rhetoric in a news forum? Obviously you guys know something the rest of us don't. Right? Right?? I mean, surely Obama makes ALL of the decisions that affect this country, and none of our other elected officials in office or any of the numerous countries that signed the resolution have a damn thing to do with anything. Wow, how tiresome it is to hear people use one man as the scapegoat for all of our countries woes. Struggling economy? Political division? Country in 3 wars? Class inequality? It MUST be Obama's fault, because nobody else could possibly be held accountable! Hey, let's hear a rant about socialism...it's been a while and I need something to put me to sleep...zzz

        • 3 votes
        #1.16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:11 PM EDT

        Kornfed - What a difference Obama makes!!

        Sure (extreme sarcasm).

        1. F**ked up Afghanistan. His negotiated Rules of Engagement (cannot shoot until shot) with President Karzai.

        His August 2009 US Civilian Surge, and if you do not know why, go read my previous observations and first hand experience with the hundred thousand US Civilians here (Afganistan).

        2. F**ked up Iraq. His Policies (lack of commitment) ended up with the "President Obama gave Iraq to Fundamentalist Islamic Iran on a Golden Platter" - Saudi Arabian Government, 2011. Result the longtime Allies of Fundamentalist Islamic Iran end up with the Northern And Southern Iraqis Oil Fields, Kurdistanis since the Iran Iraq Wars, the millions of Shiite Iranians Illegal Aliens that filled up Southern Iraq after the Fall of the Shah to excape massive Iranian Unemployment). With Fundamentalist Islamic Irans allies the Russian Federation and Chinese (currently supplying weapons, technology, etc.) for Iranian Oil getting the Oil Contracts, 2011, from the Kurdistanis (Northern Iraqis Oil Fields) and the Shiite Iranians at Iraq (Southern Iraqis Oil Fields).

        Fundamentalist Islamic Iran now controls the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman effectively choking off Saudi and Kuwaitis Oil Supertanker shipments to the US.

        As the real reason for the current, 2011, rises in Oil (Gas) Prices.

        Yes, sure he made all of our efforts at Iraq and Afghanistan a total waste of lives, money, time, ever since my US Military Officer Involvement with the Middle East since the 1980s.

        Whoever mentions Brazil, needs to do their research. Brazil was run by a person with a fourth grade education, that brought Brazil up in technology, real alternative energy (not Oil. electricity and vehicle fuel), high employment, increased Education, and Brazil is now the 5th best Economy of the Americas (out of the current Depression, aka 60-100 Trillion USD "Global Economic Crisis"). So to say "Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader", applies to many in the US especially the US Politicians.

        • 3 votes
        #1.17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:41 PM EDT

        Jay, if you saw my earlier posts, I said I was not sure we should be there. Obama wasn't sure we should be there in the beginning. Then he decided we did. And now it appears he still isn't sure if we should be there. That's simple enough for me to understand. I also voted for Obama. I don't blame him for "everything", but I feel whoever replaces him will have a much harder task because of his policies. Class inequality? In this country, you can be most anything you want to be. Of course, it helps if your parents to steer you in that direction. Political division, what's new? Three wars? One of them is purely Obama's and judging from the lead up to this war, he has failed miserably at making most of us confident that he knows what he is doing. Obama a scapegoat for this country's problems? I only hold him responsible for his actions, nobody elses. Sorry that it bothers you that others dare to state their opinions. What have you done for this country Jay? Seriously, it helps to know something about those we speak with. I'll check this thread tomorrow, as I've got to catch the Rachel Maddow show. I never miss that guy's show. Always been amazed by his clean shaven face. Perhaps you can sense that I'm old enough to say what I think. That's served this country well in the past. Satisfying leftists like yourself with political correctness would mean I would have to become a friggin liar. Bleeding heart liberals took over this country only recently. Aloha.

        • 2 votes
        #1.18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:43 PM EDT

        add to post #1.16

        Reference for Brazil:

        Brazil's Economy Booms, Loudly

        http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/01/31/world/main3775896.shtml?tag=mncol;lst;1

        Lanikai Ron - Three wars?

        Try Five Wars, Iraq (sending "Non Combat Units" trained as Combat Units to replace Combat Units), Afghanistan, Two Secret Wars (ask Lieberman, he shot his mouth off), and now Libya (violation of 2011 UN Resolution 1973, Offensive Actions, not defensive actions to protect Libyan Civilians).

        • 2 votes
        #1.19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:46 PM EDT

        David, I may or may not have known your Dad. All of us in that era learned to fly helicopters at Fort Wolters (primary training)and Fort Rucker (advanced training). Huntsville was where your Dad got his fixed wing aircraft training. I'm sure he was a great individual and I wish he was here so I could thank him. My Dad is still alive. Lifer Marine, veteran of WWII, Korean War, and three tours in Vietnam. I only had one and it was good enough for me. I must say that my Dad is shielded for the most part from the ignorant leftists that post here, as he no longer has the ability to use a computer. Men like our fathers are becoming much harder to find. Aloha.

          #1.20 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:00 PM EDT

          @Lanikai Ron - I check these forums on a daily basis and regardless of which topic I read about, posters try to subjugate the conversation by injecting their predisposed political opinions into their commentary instead of initiating a real conversation. I DO appreciate you're elaboration in your response, which is something that I am able to respect as a man. I cannot speak on behalf of others, but I do get my news from multiple sources. I do listen with an open ear to both sides. And I do feel that anyone who has their mind made up before the issue has been discussed in full does so as a disservice to themselves as well as others. I firmly believe that when folks focus their dissent and energy into something productive, wonderful things can happen. But to see hatred spewed day after day after day on the backs of others rhetoric without formulating one's own opinion stemmed from a concrete basis is concerning to me as a citizen.

          BTW, I laughed my a$$ off at your Maddow comment. Touche'.

            #1.21 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:25 PM EDT

            Jay, sorry, but I went to Maui yesterday, for work, and did not have computer access to check as I said I would. Thank you for your response. I disagree with you on the point you made about subjugation. That's a matter of opinion. To stop what you identify as subjugation would mean you are silencing the opinions of others and from your response, I get the impression that you would not condone silencing those simply because they may disagree with you. Those that support Obama policies in these forums do the same thing and when I respond, I'm often attacked for stating an opposing opinion. Here in Hawaii, we have been ruled over by the Democrats for more than 40-years. We have a new Governor who has come back from D.C. where he served in the House of Reps 20-years. Like many states, we have a deficit problem that he said he was going to fix. His fix thus far consists of raising the state's budget, raisng government fees, and now backtracking on his promise not to raise our GET. The Taxacrats never change, they just tell us they will until they are elected. I considered myself a Democrat for many years. Then I had a life changing experience. I own and operate a union general contracting company. I suddenly saw what it was like to operate a business under the reign of the Democrat Party's government control where they take from the producers to support the non-producers. Remember, I voted for Obama and wasn't considered a racist by the lefties in these forums until I spoke up against some of his policies. I had hoped this man could bring this country together. Instead, I feel he has split us apart like no President I can recall in my lifetime. Won't get into all of the reasons for that here, as you have already demonstrated that opinions that you oppose are just something to laugh about. I wish you and everyone else in these forums nothing but the best and truly feel that all of this country's citizens will need a great deal of luck in attaining the American Dream I've managed to live during the 63-years I've been on this planet. Aloha.

              #1.22 - Fri Mar 25, 2011 2:32 PM EDT

              @Lanikai Ron - Perhaps it is a difference of age, life experience, education, economics, and geography. I'm sorry if I gave the impression that I wish to snuff the voice of anyone who opposes me. I was referring specifically to degrading name-calling and uneducated, toxic remarks. It would be refreshing...no, wait...stunning to see that some posters provide the catalyst for a debate that could spark ideas, inspiration, and motivation. Maybe I haven't been around long enough, but I haven't seen a lot of that here. I want to be very clear that the group I referenced in my prior reply is composed of people on both sides of the argument. And yes, it is my opinion. But we all know that in the world of the internet forum, the only opinion that matters is one's own. Do I really believe that I'm going to change one's opinion about anything? No. But we do have the ability to make others look at the issues differently without being territorial.

              As far as your new governor - mine is Rick Scott. The same guy who campaigned partially on the idea that he would not cut funding for education. For the 2011-12 state budget, he has proposed a cut of $1.75B from Education in order to assist with closing the budget gap. He ALSO proposed to provide $1.6B in tax cuts to his buddies at big corporate. If my math is correct, that does next to nothing to close our gap. He's a Republican. Jeb Bush was as well, whom I had never had problems with. A snake is a snake, regardless of what colors he wears. Saying that a politician sucks because he/she is Republican or Democrat makes no sense; there are only good politicians and bad ones. Too many of them are already bought and paid for, which leaves the public's common interests on the floor next to the table scraps.

                #1.23 - Sun Mar 27, 2011 7:38 PM EDT

                Hi Jay, thanks again for the input. I sense you and I could agree on most issues as it appears to me you also want this country to succeed and it's people to prosper. I currently have more in common with fiscal conservatives, but I consider myself an independent and as I said, I voted for Obama last time around. The Republicans are politicians also and must be watched and prodded to at least bring some balance to what has to be historical overreaching by the Democrats under Obama. The economy is no doubt the most important issue our politicians should be addessing right now, and in doing so, reducing government budgets must be part of that. You and I know that if we can't afford something, we must go without it until we can. My biggest concern is that we do not put our My opinion. Oh God Jay, while typing this to you, I just got an email (mass emailing) from our governor, which I've pasted below as an example of what we here in Hawaii are facing. What a coincidence. As usual, Governor Abercrombie makes it hard to argue against his visions, but this is a perfect example of what I was just saying. This message is setting us up for the tax increases he told us during the election that he would not support. Our state government needs to grow, our state budget needs to increase, and the taxpayers will be the only source of additional funds to cover it. Forget the fact that we are already suffering under a deficit. Jay, if I ran my company like this, I would lose everything I have. I guarantee you that if it was his money at risk instead of the money from the taxpayers, he would be singing a different song.

                Aloha Ronald,

                My Administration has put forward a budget plan that will boost our economic recovery, improve how government works, and move Hawai'i in a new economic, social, and educational direction. We can and must do these things, even in these challenging fiscal times—but we will do so only if we have the will. Talking about it and wishing for it will not do it.

                So, for everyone in Hawai'i, we have some big decisions to make and we need to make them now.

                Do we want to have good jobs, good housing, and strong communities? Do we want our children to be able to live in Hawai'i and pursue their dreams here in the islands? Of course we do. But if we want these things, we have to make sure that the University system is thriving, not barely getting by. We need to get more money churning in the economy to help the private and public sectors recover and create better paying jobs with career paths. We need to invest in and promote industries to a much greater degree.

                Do we want our children to have a brighter future than we have? If we do, we will need to provide basic preschool opportunities, restore programs for our most vulnerable keiki, and invest in our public schools. The items in our budget—like making improvements to our school facilities so they can accommodate new technologies—are not nearly enough, but it’s a start we cannot neglect. We will continue making the best use of the resources we have.

                Do we want more locally-owned businesses that can create jobs and dollars for our economy? If we do, we need to build our information infrastructure, streamline government processes, provide the community-based business assistance to make sure that our entrepreneurs get every opportunity to compete and succeed. We need adequate state personnel to facilitate and support these efforts.

                Do we want to produce our own energy instead of exporting billions of dollars to unstable oil-rich countries? Do we want to use those dollars to pay our own solar installers, biofuel farmers, geothermal engineers, and wind energy technicians? If we do, then we need to connect the islands, accelerate the transition to clean energy with the right incentives, and build functioning regulatory agencies so projects aren’t stuck in paper and process.

                Do we want to grow our own healthy food instead of being so dependent on multi-national food conglomerates and food and fuel grown and produced in developing countries? If we do, we’ll need to repair our irrigation systems and invest in agricultural research and education. Reinstating eliminated agricultural inspectors is a step in the right direction, but that step alone won’t get us there—not even close.

                Do we want Hawai'i to belong to all people and not just the wealthiest few? If so, then we need to break cycles of poverty, which we cannot do if we are only willing to see our people have just the basic minimum assistance they need to get to the next day. We need to provide training, opportunity, and services so families can become self-sufficient.

                In these challenging times, everyone—including the public sector—is going to do more with less. Public employees are already working harder and smarter, engaging volunteers, creating new partnerships, seeking federal and other funds. We will keep doing these things, but these things alone won’t get us where we need to be.

                If we really want all this for Hawai'i, then we are going to have to pay for them. We’re going to have to address long term liabilities we’ve ignored; we’re going to have to repair the infrastructure that we’ve let deteriorate; and we’re going to have to reorganize government and invest in its capacity to do the people’s business.

                I don’t believe our public schools, housing, jobs, parks, airports, harbors, business environment, technology, or culture and arts programs are good enough as they stand today. And the people of Hawai'i don’t think so either. That’s why they voted for a New Day.

                We must commit ourselves 100 percent to solve our fiscal crisis and focus on economic growth. If we pass a plan with sufficient new tax revenues that commits everyone to do their fair share, we can be thriving in two years, maybe less. If we don’t commit entirely—if we choose instead to nickel and dime ourselves—our recovery will stall or even recede.

                And if we do nothing—if we decide to just get by and stand still for yet another year—then not only will nothing change but we risk sinking further into pessimism and civic decline.

                We do not have to settle for the status quo. We cannot get bogged down by the petty political story of the day. We can’t be stuck in the weeds, bickering over one detail or another, pointing fingers at each other.

                Our time is now. We need everyone to reach out to their family, friends, legislators, and community to make it known that we want a New Day. Have faith in one another; help one another. Together, let’s commit to the New Day plan, pass a budget that will get the job done, reinvest in ourselves, and move forward with purpose and pride. If we all share the burden, we will all share a bright Hawai'i future.

                Imua Hawaiˈi!

                Neil Abercrombie

                God help us here in Hawaii under the Taxacrats. When he tells us we all need to share in the burden, he's talking to the 50% of us here that pay any taxes at all. Nice speaking with you Jay. I feel I got something from your posts and as you stated earlier, we need to listen to the honest opinions of others with an open mind. Sorry for the long message, but I had to include this realtime message from our Governor. Wishing the best to you and yours. Aloha.

                  #1.24 - Sun Mar 27, 2011 9:51 PM EDT
                  Reply

                  I really hope Khadaffi ends up in a War Crimes tribunal before doing the "rope dance".

                  • 3 votes
                  Reply#2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:39 PM EDT

                  He should be captured alive if at all possible and then tried by his own people.

                  • 1 vote
                  #2.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:38 PM EDT

                  Capture him and hold him in Guantanimo. Barrack W Obama

                  • 3 votes
                  #2.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:15 PM EDT

                  no thank you. we don't need him that close to florida. how about sending him to a pen in your town?

                    #2.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:41 PM EDT
                    Reply

                    I cannot even begin to comprehend the failure of the Obama administration to provide proper timely military assistance to these Libyan freedom fighters. It seems to me to be to be an abysmal failure on the part of President Obama from the standpoint of ground operations. - RC

                    • 4 votes
                    #3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:47 PM EDT

                    Half the Right is pushing Isolationism and the other half is complaining about "dithering". Lets just split the difference and give Obama respect for getting it done.

                    • 16 votes
                    #3.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:51 PM EDT

                    The US is only part of an International coalition.

                    Taking out tanks in open desert is easily done from the air.

                    Taking out Gadafi troops in an urban area like Misrata can only be done with ground troops as part of the equation.

                    Rick Carter - Are you willing to commit US ground troops to Libya?

                    No? Then just shut up!

                    • 5 votes
                    #3.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:15 PM EDT

                    Atom. I agree with you. And I'm a republican.

                    • 6 votes
                    #3.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:36 PM EDT

                    And ALL of the left is falling at the feet of Obama, ignoring the hypocrisy of it all. I wonder if while Obama is waging war on a country who present 0 threat to the US, he's wearing his Nobel Peace Prize.

                    Obama made the assertion in a Dec. 20, 2007 interview with the Boston Globe when reporter Charlie Savage asked him under what circumstances the president would have the constitutional authority to bomb Iran without first seeking authorization from Congress.

                    “The President does not have power under the Constitution to unilaterally authorize a military attack in a situation that does not involve stopping an actual or imminent threat to the nation,” Obama responded.

                    Yup. Libya HAS to be a threat to the US, or this would make him a typical liberal double talker.

                    • 4 votes
                    #3.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:36 PM EDT

                    yea, better late than never. it would have gotten alot worse if we had done nothing

                    • 4 votes
                    #3.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:40 PM EDT

                    Rick Eagle Scout--whatever--I doubt the President gives a tinker's damn what you think. Get elected to something and stop criticizing what the man does--as if you could do any better. Every one gets on the Vine and makes these post event second guesses. He has Generals, Admirals, Peckerneck Defense Contractors, etc, running the show--now you? What's up with the "RC" at the end of every post? Why not: "XLEagle1--over and out"? I watched some comparative videos of McCain, L Graham, etc--before the action started. They were criticizing President Obama for not taking action. The next video was them bitching about the fact that he did take action. At least he didn't have to lie through his teeth and manufacture evidence to take the action. Take a break--I hear Tripoli is nice this time of year. "SR"

                    • 4 votes
                    #3.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:49 PM EDT

                    What Anthony said. I'm a die-hard libertarian and not a huge fan of some of the President's ideas, but I think he played this one very well.

                    • 5 votes
                    #3.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:57 PM EDT

                    President Obama is doing what every US President should do, he is focused on our national security, trying to overcome the economic problems he inherited, trying to promote American exports abroad and, in this instance, he committed the USA to participate in a humanitarian mission designed to minimize the actions of a delusional megalomaniac dictator who does not hesitate to slaughter his people if that is what it takes to stay in power indefinitely.

                    It is unfortunate that while most of the world supports and applauds our unselfish willigness to help those in need it is our own people who raise obstacles and engage in childish criticisms and expressions of hate without ever offering an alternative. President Obama, our government and our men and women in uniform are doing a great job and they deserve our support and respect.

                    • 12 votes
                    #3.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:10 PM EDT

                    Atomic -

                    I was thinking the EXACT same thing. First I read countless conservative articles criticizing the President for not doing anything . . . then he does something . . . and they all criticize how he did it, or what he does.

                    Then I hear Repubs yell, "get out of Libya . . . they are zero threat to us." Then another group of Repubs supports being there. Can they make up their mind on ANYTHING?

                    Finally, we have Repubs like Gharms complaining about hypocrisy . . . REALLY? You, a Republican, complaining about hypocrisy? Are you serious? Your entire party is full of nothing by hypocrites. Every talking head you listen to ALWAYS makes the yearly "Top 10 Hypocrites" list. Your party is based on hypocrisy . . . AND YOU ACCEPT IT. So it's "ok" when EVERY SINGLE Republican representative does it, but you draw the line at Obama? "Hey pot, this is kettle. You're black."

                    • 7 votes
                    #3.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:21 PM EDT

                    Dominick, powerfully written, and I agree 100 percent with your comments. And the president,

                    the men and women in uniform are getting the job done and they most certainly deserve our

                    support and respect. I teared up when I read what you had to say. Phyllis

                      #3.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:22 PM EDT

                      Yeah, He's focused on national security. From a jobs mission in Brazil where he handed out over 2,000,000,000.00 dollars of foriegn aid. I wonder if that was in the Budget? Oh yeah. we don't have a budget. so he is just handing out money to the poor.

                      • 2 votes
                      #3.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:23 PM EDT

                      Libyan freedom fighters? HAH that's rich. Last month many of those same Al Qaeda rebels were killing US Soldiers in Afghanistan AND previously they were killing US Soldiers inside Iraq. They make a tiny portion of the 6 million Libyan people and the vast majority of Libyans want nothing whatsoever to do with the Al Qaeda linked rebels residing in Eastern Libya and primarily in the Al Qaeda North African base Benghazi.

                      Those 'freedom fighters' carried out the Osama bin Ladin ordered Al Qaeda attack on the US Embassy in Kenya killing some 200 people. That from their base in Benghazi, the same base now being protected and armed by the coalition.

                      • 3 votes
                      #3.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:24 PM EDT

                      Um, how do any of you know these are "jihaadists" and "al qaeda"? Have YOU seen them in person? Have YOU talked to them, seen them at al qaeda meetings? yea. ha. didn't think so. The standpoint I'm taking from this is we needed to stop Gaddafi from killing innocent people.

                      So what you're saying, is you're cool if obama tells our troops to shoot whoever protests in our streets, correct?

                      I'm no Obama fan, I'm just glad he did something. Although, could've been done earlier

                      • 1 vote
                      #3.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:07 PM EDT

                      This is a CIVIL war that we entered without even KNOWING who the rebels are. In fact they are a loose coalition of malcontents without any common goal beyond removal of Gaddhafi. On look, Egypt did it why can't we? Once he is gone, they will fight among themselves over the end form of the new government.

                      • 4 votes
                      #3.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:08 PM EDT

                      This is about being pro-life at least on the surface. I am sure there are nefarious entities representing big oil and the US-UK arem makers. It is not a perfect situation as a video game, but it s neither a big lie nor war crime as invading Iraq and Afghanistan.

                      • 1 vote
                      #3.15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:36 PM EDT

                      Atomic Z Man...That's because we actually think about issues. As opposed to you and your ilk, who simply take your talking points from Rachel Maddow and Ed Schulz.

                      • 2 votes
                      #3.16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:04 PM EDT

                      Bull@!$%#, A. Smith, don't lie because you think it sounds good. It's true that Al Qaeda supports the overthrow of Ghadafi as he fought Al Qaeda in Libya, but the reports are also true about Libyans in well over half the country uniting to overthrow their dictator, about Ghadafi using his vast wealth to hire mercenaries to massacre his own people, destroy his own cities, a dictator who ordered the Lockerbie bombing and deploys snipers on rooftops to shoot unarmed civilians. That's all true. Read the reports, he would destroy his whole nation just to stay in power. Don't mix one with the other, or you're just as dumb as his supporters, believing his country's being overrun by Al Qaeda even while mercenaries from other countries are shooting down Libyans in the streets only 125 miles away.

                      • 1 vote
                      #3.17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:32 PM EDT

                      This town is has a sea port....We have NATO ships off the coast. If it's too dangerous for aircraft to fly low enough to drop supplies, why not jus send a ship full of humanitarian aid. Of course, the backlash of "putting boots on the ground" would occur. But that's expected.

                        #3.18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:05 PM EDT

                        Mike, as good as that sounds, there are tanks and snipers all around the city and hospital. Anyone moving becomes an instant target and would be in harms way. The supplies would be taken and used by the merc forces fighting for Qaddafi (Gadhafi, depends on the report for spelling). I don't know if there is enough 'on the ground intelligence' to know for sure how many of the rebel fighters are part of the Taliban and how many are truely Libya populace. The main fact remains that many factions of the Libyan army have also turned against their leader and most of the rebels act like they are a 'civilian fighting force', where as if they were part of the Taliban they would have better leadership and fighting capabilities. For those that don't know the difference between a trained soldier and a civilian with a rifle, I can tell you it has alot to do with fire-control, command and communication, knowing vantage points and deploying tactics that have the most effectiveness against your enemy. The civilian with a rifle, points towards the enemy and 'sprays bullets' hoping they will find their target. They run wildly through the terrain and wonder why they are lying in their own blood.

                        I know it is hard to read these reports and wonder why America isn't doing more to help these cities. My concern comes from the statement that they have no form of communication to know how their families are doing, no way into or out of the hospital and yet we have this report from a doctor in the hospital???

                        The airspace control is a significant aid to those that are held-up in the cities, even if it falls short of really assisting them to get supplies that they so desperately seem to need at this time. Anybody that really thought the mercenary armies would just pull-back and give up, must have also believed that when we invaded Iraq they would welcome us with open arms!

                        This is a dark, bloody time for Libya. We (America) did not cause it and we are not responsible for 'cleaning it up', especially at the cost of more American lives. But that is just the opinion of a tired Marine.

                          #3.19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:49 PM EDT
                          Reply

                          6 bucks a gallon

                          • 2 votes
                          Reply#4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:50 PM EDT

                          Who cares about the price of filling your SUV, while innocent people are being slaughtered.

                          Honestly, has America become that self centered?

                          • 6 votes
                          #4.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:15 PM EDT

                          Says the guy who no doubt whines about the other 2 wars we're in. But hey, this one is Obama's so it's righteous and warranted!

                          • 3 votes
                          #4.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:18 PM EDT

                          Only if Saudi Arabia goes the same way as Libya. Then it will be $8-$10/gal.

                          Otherwise, Libya is a small player (2%). Oil is only going up because of what might happen next in other oil producing countries.

                          • 1 vote
                          #4.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:19 PM EDT

                          All this isn't just "freedom fighters", it's a concerted effort by jihaadists to create "the caliphate" as the arab brotherhood is referring to the "super leader" who will "rain death on the west". Notice Obummer supports that outcome? That is definitely Much Worse that gas prices or any sentimentalism from left leaning idiots about people suffering. make no mistake-it Will come here, and you Won't like it when they attempt to impose sharia law and dhimmitude on you because you're an "infidel". Mohammedans only know one thing-death to infidels (Everyone else). Think i'm wrong? spend some time in Iran, Afghanistan or Iraq. Within a week, you'll Beg to come home to the USA. I spent 9 months there total, and IHTFP is the proper expression for it.

                          • 4 votes
                          #4.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:27 PM EDT

                          No one knows who would take over. Freedom fighters is a great title and makes a great story but its likely not true. The radicals want control over the people. If history repeats itself they will get it

                            #4.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:39 PM EDT

                            SSGdave, dude youve got to be kidding me. I went to Iraq and the people looked to us for leadership. And they still do today now that they figured outthat really, as it had always been, we were there to help them!

                            • 1 vote
                            #4.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:42 PM EDT

                            Certified Specialist--your post rings true to me. I hear that argument so often about fuel cost. We have lost our moral compass and are indifferent about human suffering--at long as it doesn't effect our driving schedule or interrupt our favorite television show. The rest of the world dreams of having what we have. They should be careful what they wish for--or they will be full of hubris, as we are--knowing the cost of everything, yet the value of nothing.

                            • 2 votes
                            #4.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:56 PM EDT

                            SSG - I lived in Saudi for 5 years and I have no idea what you're talking about. Then again, I knew people who were afraid to go off the oil company compound for years. . . I went EVERYWHERE and had no problems.

                              #4.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:01 PM EDT

                              Anti-American Extremists Among Libyan Rebels U.S. Has Vowed To Protect

                              WASHINGTON -- In 2007, when American combat casualties were spiking in the bloodbath of the Iraq War, an 18-year-old laborer traveled from his home in eastern Libya through Egypt and Syria to join an al Qaeda terrorist cell in Iraq. He gave his name to al Qaeda operatives as Ashraf Ahmad Abu-Bakr al-Hasri. Occupation, he wrote: “Martyr.’’

                              Abu-Bakr was one of hundreds of foreign fighters who flocked into the killing zones of Iraq to wage war against the “infidels." They came from Saudi Arabia, Syria, Oman, Algeria and other Islamic states. But on a per capita basis, no country sent more young fighters into Iraq to kill Americans than Libya -- and almost all of them came from eastern Libya, the center of the anti-Gaddafi rebellion that the United States and others now have vowed to protect, according to internal al Qaeda documents uncovered by U.S. intelligence.

                              http://xrl.in/7ihk

                              U.S. Government Backs Libyan Al-Qaeda While Hyping Terror Attacks Inside U.S.

                              Achieving new heights of hypocrisy, the U.S government is hyping the threat of Libyan-backed reprisal terror attacks inside the United States, while launching air strikes in support of so-called “protesters” who have commandeered fighter jets and tanks, and are in fact Islamic fundamentalist Al-Qaeda cells who want to impose sharia law in Libya.

                              “Al Qaeda has a demonstrated track record of trying to exploit political vacuums, political change or uncertainty in a number of countries,” Mr. Brennan added. “The situation in Libya now will be no exception.”

                              This is pretty rich considering the fact that it was British MI6 and the CIA who paid Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda $100,000 dollars to assassinate Gaddafi in 1996.

                              In 2002 French intelligence experts revealed how western intelligence agencies bankrolled a Libyan Al-Qaeda cell controlled directly by Bin Laden to hatch a plot to kill Gaddafi that was foiled in March 1996. The cell was led by Anas al-Liby, who was with Bin Laden in Sudan before Bin Laden returned to Afghanistan.

                              Indeed, it was Gaddafi’s Libya who put out the first Interpol warrant for Bin Laden’s arrest in 1998. Western intelligence agencies blocked the warrant from being pursued, and allowed Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda to go on and kill more than 200 people in the truck bombings of US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania.

                              http://xrl.in/7ij5

                              With no imminent threat a US President does not have the US Constitutional authority to launch an attack on a soveriegn nation.

                              The truck bombing of the US Embassy in Kenya ordered by Osama bin Ladin carried out by Al-Qaeda in Benghazi with Anas al-Liby.

                              Libyan Rebels in Benghazi deeply connected to Al Qaeda US Military Documents reveal!

                              http://xrl.in/7sih

                              The once-secret Iraqi “Sinjar documents” outlined by the US Military Intelligence proves these Libyan Rebels are largely Al Qaeda.

                              • 2 votes
                              #4.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:28 PM EDT

                              I wonder what the British called us in 1776? Radicals? Anti Church of England evangelicals?

                              Revolutions, whether in the Colonies in the 18th Century or in Libya today, are always messy undertakings with no certain outcome. The United States, Britain and France, all permanent members of the UN Security Council convinced China and Russia, also members of the Security Council, to take a walk on Libya which was a pretty neat diplomatic feat. The UN, not the US, Britain or France, then declared a no-fly zone to keep MiGs from murdering Libyans. As members of the UN, we along with others including Italy and even Sweden are enforcing the UN decree.

                              So, rather than throwing arrows at Obama, go picket the UN Building in New York. Meanwhile, as Americans, if not enthralled with our President, support our military efforts now and argue about whether the lives of Libyans are worth the bother later.

                              • 3 votes
                              #4.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:43 PM EDT

                              A Smith-

                              All of your sources are from the Asian Tribune, which specializes in Sri Lanka news. They weren't even around 10 years ago!

                              Do you really think these are accurate articles from reliable sources specializing in Iraq and Libya?

                              • 1 vote
                              #4.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:53 PM EDT
                              Reply

                              Khadaffi is a tyrannt that must be taken out so Libya can put in place their own representative democracy.

                              Why else would Khadaffi send his sniper's and tanks to attack a hospital? He must be afraid of sending them against men and women who can actually fight back.

                              If the rest of the Middle East wants to be free from the overlords of Big Oil all they have to do is take the side of Big Solar (Mr Solar dot com) Power to bring the master's of their country to the ground.

                              50 corporate lawyer's equal a waste of money on Koch Knight's behalf. If a company is not involved in illegal activities why do they need so many lawyer's?

                              All I need is one.

                              • 4 votes
                              Reply#5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:51 PM EDT

                              Kadaffi rules by fear. That's why he is doing what he is doing right now however ruthless.

                              Continue diminishing his heavy armor, command & communications, and level his entire complex in central Tripoli.

                              When people see this they will know his end is near and will either take him out themselves or defect to the opposition.

                              This monster only understands one thing.

                              • 1 vote
                              #5.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:34 PM EDT
                              Reply

                              hope and change we can count on

                              • 1 vote
                              Reply#6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:51 PM EDT

                              After telling us "no boots on the ground, you have my word" he then sends a Marine Expeditionary Force, equivalent to a Marine Battalion, to perform Combat Operations. Is this the "Change" you refer to? Lying to the people of the US in favor of his Mohammedan roots? That is change we Can't believe in, dumas.

                              • 4 votes
                              #6.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:31 PM EDT

                              What @!$%#ing lies are you spreading dave?

                              • 2 votes
                              #6.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:44 PM EDT

                              SSGDave-

                              Where exactly did you hear a Marine Exp. Force was already sent in for combat duties?

                              I haven't heard that yet.

                                #6.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:58 PM EDT

                                They'll get "advisors" and "private contractors" first.

                                  #6.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:21 PM EDT

                                  Anyone doubt that the US, France, Great Britain and many other nations have been supporting the Libyan rebels for some time now? If you doubt, you are naive. Certainly no one in Washington, London or Paris has the knowledge that locals have and you can bet those locals are being consulted and are offering targeting information.

                                    #6.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:49 PM EDT

                                    SSGDave - You are right about the Marines, I can not say how or where I heard this, but it is true. Also, there are other US ground forces on the move, and its funny how the name of the mission, named back in November, is very similar to the name of the mission being conducted in Lybia as we speak... just saying???

                                      #6.6 - Thu Mar 24, 2011 6:56 AM EDT
                                      Reply

                                      It's despicable. Not different from things we have seen or heard of before but still despicable. Any real man that could be behind or in front of or the operative of a mission that is said to "save the Libyans" but kills them inside hospital doors or in family units with small children needs to have their attitude adjusted. Gadhaffi is a madman raging out of control. It's time for that type of tyranny to be pronounced dead.

                                      • 5 votes
                                      Reply#7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:52 PM EDT

                                      And when he was sponsoring all those terrorists in the 60's, 70's and 80's what happened? he deserved to be punished as a conspirator to commit murder then as well, but nobody did anything......"Suddenly" it's important? Why? because it's ISLAM wanting his death? Mohammedans want us ALL dead, so i'd keep searching for the Root of the Problem if i were you.

                                      • 3 votes
                                      #7.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:34 PM EDT

                                      S/Sgt. your not in my Marine Corps making the assinine comments you are.

                                      • 1 vote
                                      #7.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:11 PM EDT

                                      Ironically,Gadhafi issued a Interpol arrest warrent on Osama bin Ladin in 1998 that was blocked by America,England creating chaos.

                                      This came after UK's MI6 and America's CIA paid 100,000 dollars to Osama bin Ladin to assassinate Gadhafi and failed. Then the entire plot was uncovered whereupon it appears the CIA tried to eliminate Osama bin Ladin rather than have the truth revealed during a trial in Libya. At that time Osama was in the Al Qaeda North African base of operations which is still located in Benghazi, Libya. The same Al Qaeda base now being protected and armed by the 'coalition'. Ironic isn't it, considering Osama ordered the Al Qaeda rebels in Benghazi to carry out the horrific truck bombing of the US Embassy in KENYA which killed some 200 people. Protect these people? That is INSANE!

                                      Everyday Libyan civilians that are pro-Gadhafi are arming themselves and shooting these Al Qaeda rebels in Mistrata with every chance they have. They do not want to be ruled by Al Qaeda and you blame them? You would be doing the same exact thing here in America.

                                      • 2 votes
                                      #7.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:37 PM EDT

                                      If you're going to keep lying, stop talking A. Smith. We tried to oust Ghadafi in 1986, we failed. Why would we then pay a terrorist organization in 1998 to assassinate him. I saw that article, it was funded by English government, not the U.S., and supported a libyan extremist organization who had connections to Al Qaeda's network, but were not Al Qaeda, and it wasn't proven. If you're gonna use informational theory, incorrectly I might add, u might as well throw the lochness monster or Area 51 into this.

                                      • 1 vote
                                      #7.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:49 PM EDT
                                      Reply

                                      Wow. This is the lowest of the low. I mean, we've all seen dictators, but shooting up people in hospitals is a rare atrocity even by their standards...

                                      • 6 votes
                                      Reply#8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:02 PM EDT

                                      Yeah I think it's time we show Mr Kaddhafi what a laser guided missile looks like.

                                      • 4 votes
                                      #8.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:20 PM EDT

                                      And as for Castro, Mao, all the rest of the dictators who did the same or Worse?

                                      • 1 vote
                                      #8.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:35 PM EDT

                                      yeah when its 50 feet up his....traveling mach 3

                                        #8.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:41 PM EDT

                                        SSGDave--Castro? Have you ever been to Cuba? The people are happy for the most. Canadians and Europeans travel there for vacations and Americans can fly to Nassau and hop a flight without getting their passport stamped. You can walk the streets of Havana at night with no worries--safer than many places in the US. We've made that crazy embargo last long enough.

                                        • 4 votes
                                        #8.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:19 PM EDT

                                        G is insane. He has so many wives he probably has std in his brain.

                                          #8.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:49 PM EDT
                                          Reply

                                          obomber...what have you done? You've added a war...instead of subtracting one.

                                          • 2 votes
                                          Reply#9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:11 PM EDT

                                          This is not 'another' war, it is a military intervention, there are many differences between the two. The most important difference is that there is no long term commitment, unlike a war where you have to devote troops, supplies, equipment and resources for a period of time that will allow the operation to be completed. With this intervention, we could move our fleet tomorrow and there is no more operation. There is no 'clean up' of assets or resources that would hinder our withdrawal. That's just the biggest difference, there are many more differences, both large and small that delinate what the absolutes are between an operation and a war.

                                            #9.1 - Fri Mar 25, 2011 12:51 AM EDT

                                            NATO agreed to take over command of the newly established no-fly zone over Libya, protective flights meant to deter Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi from putting warplanes in the air. That leaves the U.S. with responsibility for attacks on Gadhafi's ground forces and other targets, which are the toughest and most controversial portion of the operation.

                                            WRONG! We are now in it for the long haul, as we are expected to handle ground ops. Yay for us! Another WAR.

                                            • 1 vote
                                            #9.2 - Fri Mar 25, 2011 12:59 AM EDT
                                            Reply

                                            I am praying that this crazy man is removed.

                                            • 2 votes
                                            Reply#10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:12 PM EDT

                                            After accepting his 2nd nobel award Obama reiterated his peace policy for the mid east, "Kill them all an let ALLAH sort them out."

                                            • 3 votes
                                            Reply#11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:16 PM EDT

                                            How cowardly does a dictator have to be to be attacking hospitals?

                                            • 4 votes
                                            Reply#12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:17 PM EDT

                                            We attacked hopitals in our civil war so what does that make the repulicans.

                                              #12.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:20 PM EDT

                                              It makes them not applicable, considering all of the Democrats swear up and down that the Republicans back then would be the Democrats of today. You can't pick and choose when they were "really you in disguise" and were really Republicans. I notice when they did anything good, they were really just Democrats. When the do something like that, they're Republican. Get a grip, zealot. Go back to watching Maddow and letting her tell you what to think.

                                              • 4 votes
                                              #12.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:24 PM EDT

                                              Good point! Like these @!$%#ing retardicans and demoncats are any better than tyrannts. Time to wake the @!$%# up America. You've been asleep for far too long. It don't matter which party is in power, don't ya see we're doomed no matter what cause the Corporatocracy rules. And if you disagree you are just another uneducated fool. Lobbyists make the laws. Who pays the lobbyists? The Corps. Who does the government work for? The Corps not you and I. Free @!$%#ing healthcare. Paw. Yeah, we'll take yer @!$%#ing breadcrumbs while you azzhole richies and politicians feed like hogs at the trough of America off the backs and bodies of innocents. You will have your day, oh yes, you will have your day as in heaven and in hell.

                                                #12.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:24 PM EDT

                                                It's 2011, not 1861-1865.

                                                  #12.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:38 PM EDT
                                                  Reply

                                                  impeach barrack.

                                                  • 1 vote
                                                  Reply#13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:17 PM EDT

                                                  Leroy-

                                                  Impeach the President on what grounds exactly?

                                                  • 2 votes
                                                  #13.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:39 PM EDT

                                                  How about hate crimes against America.

                                                  • 1 vote
                                                  #13.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:48 PM EDT

                                                  RAPTURE, Do you like the job the prez is doing? Do you think he should have addressed congress befor starting a humanitarian mission that involves over 100 Tomahawk missles on the first day?

                                                  • 1 vote
                                                  #13.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:51 PM EDT

                                                  Leroy-

                                                  Congress had already "left early" for next week's spring recess when Gadaffi started slaughtering civilians in Benghazi on Friday. Obama had to act decisively to prevent another Yugoslavia and that's exactly what he did.

                                                  • 1 vote
                                                  #13.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:01 PM EDT

                                                  Go get them Rapture and Semper Fi bud.

                                                    #13.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:28 PM EDT

                                                    Leroy-

                                                    Did you mean impeach the President for "war crimes?" or "hate crimes"?

                                                    Hate crimes committed by a President who is half black? That's funny!

                                                    War crimes? What part of the Geneva or Hague Conventions has he violated? That's even funnier!

                                                      #13.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:05 PM EDT
                                                      Reply

                                                      All the fighting between the rebels and the goverment in Libya is to choose the next ditator. It doesn't matter who wins because if the rebels win then the people we fought in Iraq will be in control. If the goverment wins then there will be no change. I say let them fight it out and we will come home.

                                                        Reply#14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:18 PM EDT

                                                        Pres. Obama is doing a good job of balancing some difficult challenges. He is helping support the intervention without letting the U.S. assume the main responsibility for the long run. If he had acted unilaterally it would have been a bad precedent for the next problem. Other countries have to play a role.

                                                        • 4 votes
                                                        Reply#15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:19 PM EDT

                                                        Never mind congress. Why would we want to balance the weight of such a decision. Where are Joe Biden and Harry Reid? Is anybody doing their job in DC

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:24 PM EDT

                                                        Obama made the assertion in a Dec. 20, 2007 interview with the Boston Globe when reporter Charlie Savage asked him under what circumstances the president would have the constitutional authority to bomb Iran without first seeking authorization from Congress.

                                                        “The President does not have power under the Constitution to unilaterally authorize a military attack in a situation that does not involve stopping an actual or imminent threat to the nation,” Obama responded.

                                                        Apparently, he means everyone president but himself....

                                                        • 3 votes
                                                        #15.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:27 PM EDT

                                                        Biden said almost the exact same thing while theatening Bush with Impeachment. Hey Joe, What's good for the goose is good for the gander. Impeach Obama.

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:34 PM EDT

                                                        BHO ," I'm sorry I couldn't get the approval of Congress . I was learning to Salsa Dance, and my wife was showing me how to lead. Don't worry I'll get it right next time . Trust Me. 4 more years. thank you.

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:38 PM EDT

                                                        Congressional leaders were consulted before a single Tomahawk flew.

                                                        What exactly do you want? Have a vote in Congress? Look how long it's taking just to get a spending bill to keep the gov't operating.

                                                        And you want all limited military actions approved how?

                                                        Virtually every president, Dem & GOP, in the past 50 years have done the exact same thing President Obama is doing, some several times.

                                                        That's why he is the Commander-in-Chief of the military!

                                                        • 3 votes
                                                        #15.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:45 PM EDT

                                                        obama is doing fine quit whining

                                                        • 4 votes
                                                        #15.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:52 PM EDT

                                                        illegal war

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:52 PM EDT

                                                        Rapture you couldn't be more wrong all presidents go befor congress and declare war and ask for a vote. Both Bushes Clinton And Reagan did this so quit your stupid comments , Biden threatened W with impeachment if he didn't do it.

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:56 PM EDT

                                                        That is not why he is Commander in Chief. That is why there are 3 branches of government. so the president doesn't control to much power. I wonder, did you even go to school?

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:59 PM EDT

                                                        Obama made the assertion in a Dec. 20, 2007 interview with the Boston Globe when reporter Charlie Savage asked him under what circumstances the president would have the constitutional authority to bomb Iran without first seeking authorization from Congress.

                                                        “The President does not have power under the Constitution to unilaterally authorize a military attack in a situation that does not involve stopping an actual or imminent threat to the nation,” Obama responded.

                                                        That's pretty cut and dry right there. Keep telling yourselves he's not a hypocrite.

                                                        • 3 votes
                                                        #15.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:18 PM EDT

                                                        The President has 60 to 90 days, under the War Powers Act, to take action without Congressional approval. Unfortunately, President Obama is under so much pressure - regardless of what he does - that I would not be surprised if we hand over the Libyan mission to one of our allies within days. If that happens we will miss the opportunity to receive the credit we and our allies deserve for participating in a mission designed to stop the actions of a ruthless dictator, who attacked us in 1988 (Pan Am flight 103).

                                                        Should we assume cut and run, appeasement, and siding with dictators is the new GOP strategy? I know I am getting too old, but wasn't it the GOP that went into spasms a few months back when president Obama proposed accelerating the withdrawal schedule from Iraq? Who knows, maybe the rationale for their reversal is based on the fact that there is nothing for Halliburton and Blackwater USA in Libya...

                                                        • 2 votes
                                                        #15.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:36 PM EDT

                                                        Leroy knows very little, let's leave it at that. Ignorance is bliss right?

                                                        • 1 vote
                                                        #15.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:55 PM EDT

                                                        Leroy-

                                                        Did I even go to school?

                                                        I probably have more education, degrees, and certifications than your entire family combined!

                                                        An illegal war?

                                                        How is it illegal if the UN Security Council issued a resolution requiring the establishment of a no-fly zone over Libya? A UNSCR requires members with the capabilities to execute the Resolution. This has been used many times in the past by Presidents to act quickly without immediately requiring congressional approval. A retired US General stated before the resolution was even passed that establishing a no-fly zone first begins with intense military action to take out anti-aircraft missiles, command & communications systems, and anti-aircraft guns (the same type we've seen many images of mounted on armored vehicles and even the backs of pick-up trucks). This is basically what the cruise missiles and air sorties have been doing.

                                                        The Constitution and the various War Powers acts are a bit murkier. The Constitution states that only Congress can "declare" war. The US Congress has only actually declared war 5 times in it's history. The Constitution also states the President, as CIC, has the authority to "make" war. It is generally interpreted that the President must notify Congress within 48 hours of military action, must begin withdrawal within 60 days (barring Congressional authorization), and complete the military withdrawal 30 days later.

                                                        The latest War Powers Act (2001) gives the President additional flexibility for military action against a terrorist organization or nation that harbors them. Since Bin Laden planned the US embassy bombing from Libya, Gadaffi ordered the bombing of a Berlin disco which killed 2 US servicemen, and Libya has been implicated in the bombing of Pan Am 103 over Lockerbie killing almost 200 Americans and now harbors the released mastermind of the bombing, the Act certainly applies to Libya.

                                                        Looks like President Obama will have his choice of defenses against whining Republicans like yourself.

                                                          #15.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:19 PM EDT

                                                          Dominick.....under the War Powers Act, the qualifying statement that allows for such an undertaking by the president is that there must be a attack on US soil or holding abroad.

                                                          The War Powers Resolution of 1973 (50 U.S.C.1541–1548) was a United States Congress joint resolution providing that the President can send U.S. armed forces into action abroad only by authorization of Congress or if the United States is already under attack or serious threat. The War Powers Resolution requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces to military action and forbids armed forces from remaining for more than 60 days, with a further 30 day withdrawal period, without an authorization of the use of military force or a declaration of war. The resolution was passed by two-thirds of Congress, overriding a presidential veto.

                                                          Again, the important part of this is:

                                                          if the United States is already under attack or serious threat.

                                                          Giving the President the okay to wage war for 90 days with no need to ask anyone would lead to Presidents finding small, weak military nations and crushing them in 90 days. If we are not under imminent threat of attack or already under attack, the President requires the authorization of Congress to commit our troops or resources to armed conflict. You guys have GOT to stop using this as justification for what Obama is doing.

                                                          • 2 votes
                                                          #15.14 - Thu Mar 24, 2011 4:26 AM EDT
                                                          Reply

                                                          We need to stay out of all conflicts and civil wars and cut out foreign aid.

                                                          • 1 vote
                                                          Reply#16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:19 PM EDT

                                                          Oh? And just let these people get massacered?

                                                            #16.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:52 PM EDT

                                                            Yes. Let them sort it out.

                                                            • 1 vote
                                                            #16.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 9:25 PM EDT
                                                            Reply

                                                            I hope for change. I would like a president who is a leader. and in the country when we declare war on more nations.

                                                            • 1 vote
                                                            Reply#17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:20 PM EDT

                                                            OPPS. I mean, when we declare HUMANITARIAN MISSION on someone.

                                                            • 2 votes
                                                            #17.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:22 PM EDT
                                                            Reply

                                                            We are not mandated to send ground troops, by the Presidents own words. However the UN can do so! I'm really not sure why they are trying to do everything from the air? Also, why not send in their equivilent of our special forces to take out Gadafi, and his Sons? All this will stop when the Dictator so called leader is gone!

                                                            • 1 vote
                                                            Reply#18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:26 PM EDT

                                                            Have you SEEN the UN's ground forces? That would be like sending in a group of Boy Scouts to fight these guys. Once again, we've been dragged into a conflict we never should have been involved in, and now if we don't want to look callous or uncaring, we're gonna have to put boots on the ground.

                                                            • 1 vote
                                                            #18.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:29 PM EDT

                                                            hopefully it doesnt come to that. I hope that one of his inner circle will get the hint and just take him out.

                                                              #18.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:54 PM EDT
                                                              Reply

                                                              Libs ,,,, Obama is your Frankenstien. It's up to you to take him down. He has broken loose of your control. Please help. We are all in danger.

                                                              • 1 vote
                                                              Reply#19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:27 PM EDT

                                                              Obama,,,,," I'm from the Government, on a HUMANITARIAN MISSION, and I'm here to help"

                                                              • 1 vote
                                                              Reply#20 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:29 PM EDT

                                                              Has the Gadhafi military really bombed /targeted the hosptial?

                                                              Oh, my God!

                                                              Gadhafi can't even bear with hospital!

                                                                Reply#21 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:37 PM EDT

                                                                Libya is a country of bearly 6 million people; Tripoli has 2 million...so all of you who are so gun-ho, think: how many people are involved in this rebellion?

                                                                this was done just to distract us from the fact that NOTHING is being done in DC to improve our economy.

                                                                Imagine what are budget would have been like if we did not fight any of the wars we're in right now!

                                                                • 2 votes
                                                                Reply#22 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:37 PM EDT

                                                                never let a disaster go to waist. Between Libya and Japan , our sneaky bastard president should be able to accomplish a lot of his goals while everyone is distracted. His vacation last week was spent handing out American dollars to pore countries. Even though he said he was going on a mission for American jobs. Redistribution at it's finest. IMPEACH OBAMA.

                                                                  #22.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:44 PM EDT

                                                                  Leroy-

                                                                  Exactly what is a "pore" country?

                                                                  Your IQ can be calculated from your post.

                                                                  And I suppose our "sneaky" president started all the rebellions in the middle east and caused the quake & tsunami in Japan just to distract us?

                                                                  • 1 vote
                                                                  #22.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:49 PM EDT

                                                                  Ohh, you got me. your so smart. I misspelled a word. Why don't you explain why Barrack doesn't need to go to Congress and ask permission to start a war?

                                                                  • 2 votes
                                                                  #22.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:04 PM EDT

                                                                  leroy:

                                                                  instead of making ASSumptions, spouting off comments that have no basis in fact, and saying "IMPEACH OBAMA", go back to school and/or try doing some reading/research.

                                                                  Just about everyone who replies to you, "got you" and looks smart compared to you. Give it a rest. You just make yourself look more ignorant and uneducated with every post you make.

                                                                  We get it. You hate Obama.

                                                                  • 2 votes
                                                                  #22.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:01 PM EDT

                                                                  Pompous attitude reflects poorly on you American Lobo.

                                                                  • 1 vote
                                                                  #22.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 11:13 PM EDT

                                                                  You're in the same boat as Leroy is, Ron.

                                                                  The "I hate Obama and think he is the worst POTUS, but don't have any valid reasons that will stand up to scrutiny" boat.

                                                                  Your posts say pretty much the same thing as well. Just " I hate Obama", and nothing else.

                                                                  Nothing pompous about me pointing it out to you(and Leroy).

                                                                  • 1 vote
                                                                  #22.6 - Thu Mar 24, 2011 7:33 PM EDT
                                                                  Reply

                                                                  How would the Yankee North have reacted to English intervention in  our Civil War?

                                                                  God bless the democractically elected government of Gadhafi, and God condemn the partisan "invaders"

                                                                  The US in not savng innocent citizens, we are backing a strongman (Army Secretary) in a coup.

                                                                   

                                                                  • 1 vote
                                                                  Reply#23 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:41 PM EDT

                                                                  Well, that didnt happen, but we do know what happened whn the french intervened...we won our freedom. It is the preennial gift which should be shared amoung all people of the world.

                                                                  • 1 vote
                                                                  #23.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:56 PM EDT

                                                                  hugh, we would have chased them back across the Atlantic, that's what we would have done. I'm not sure we should be there, but the worst Commander-In-Chief this country has ever had, waffled for many days before committing us to this fight. Now, he seems more confused than ever. Wacky Ghadafi should have been taken out by us long ago.

                                                                  • 2 votes
                                                                  #23.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:04 PM EDT

                                                                  I never remember the french intervening in the American Civil War. How bout you Brady?

                                                                    #23.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:07 PM EDT

                                                                    HUGH, the French intervined during The American Revolution and the colonist defeated Cornwallis at Yorktown.

                                                                    You can probably thank the french for the ground you are standing on. However, don't let book learning interfere with you education.

                                                                    • 1 vote
                                                                    #23.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:21 PM EDT

                                                                    I seem to recall that the French provided arms to The Confederacy. I particularly remember a knife, or bayonet, which resembled a roman short sword.

                                                                      #23.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:31 PM EDT

                                                                      Leroy, at least finish the statement. It was the War of Independance that the French allied with us in.

                                                                        #23.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:32 PM EDT

                                                                        Ghadafi is a dictator, Libya is a dictatorship not a democracy. Jeez, at least read an article before commenting...

                                                                          #23.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:35 PM EDT
                                                                          Reply

                                                                          So where is The Arab League and the humanitarian relief that these people need?

                                                                          • 1 vote
                                                                          Reply#24 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:46 PM EDT

                                                                          The Arab league does what it always does when there are uprisings or one arab country attacks another. Nothing. Unless they attack the Jews. Then they're all gungho to help each other out.

                                                                            #24.1 - Thu Mar 24, 2011 4:31 AM EDT
                                                                            Reply

                                                                            I don't know why the military (Army) does not bring in the Apache helicopters into the city. Less damage then using planes. Besides they can also take out the snipers. They were design to take out tanks and personnel.

                                                                              Reply#25 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:47 PM EDT

                                                                              too easy to shoot down

                                                                                #25.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:57 PM EDT

                                                                                That puts soldiers under live fire.

                                                                                  #25.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:08 PM EDT

                                                                                  I don't think the Army is on station. You make a good point though. You might want a few Warthogs they"ll keep on tickin all shot to hell.

                                                                                    #25.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 8:33 PM EDT
                                                                                    Reply
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