Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Libyan Rebels In Brussels For Talks With NATO, European Officials

July 13, 2011

Libyan rebel leaders were in Brussels for talks with NATO and European officials.

A senior rebel official told journalists that Libyan rebels have held no negotiations so far with leader Muammar Qaddafi's regime on a solution to their five-month conflict, adding that "no coherent, comprehensive initiative has been so far put on the table."

Mahmud Jebril's comments follow the French government's remarks that a political solution was taking shape in Libya.

Jebril also rejected accusations by Human Rights Watch that anti-Qaddafi forces have been responsible for widespread looting, arson, and abuse of civilians.

The rebel leader admitted that a "few incidents" of abuse took place in the first two weeks of the insurrection, which began in February, but added, "This is no longer the case in the liberated areas."

Meanwhile, reports said forces loyal to Qaddafi retook the village of Al-Qawalish, south of the capital, Tripoli, which was captured by rebels a week ago.

compiled from agency reports

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/libya_rebel_talks_in_brussels/24264682.html

Copyright (c) 2011. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.