Achcar (2011) Flashcards
What was NATO’s rationale to intervene in Libya ?
NATO’s intervention in Libya was primarily justified on the grounds of preventing a potential massacre by Gaddafi’s forces in places like Benghazi.
Describe Gaddafi’s repression and intentions ?
Gaddafi’s regime exhibited extreme levels of repression, and both he and his son openly expressed their intention to crush the rebellion with brutal force.
What does the text use to put the number of casualties in perspective ?
The text provides comparative estimates of casualties, highlighting the severity of the situation in Libya compared to other conflicts, like Syria.
What could have been NATO’s underlying interests behind their intervention ?
While NATO cited a humanitarian pretext for intervention, the underlying motivation was likely related to economic interests, particularly oil.
Was NATO concerned with civilian casualties ?
NATO made efforts to minimize civilian casualties during their operations, reflecting lessons learned from past conflicts.
What was the relationship between Gaddafi and some of the rebels ?
It is not surprising to find individuals within the rebel movement who were formerly affiliated with Gaddafi’s regime, given its authoritarian nature.
Why was NATO’s plan challenged by changing circumstances ?
NATO’s initial plan to pressure Gaddafi while preserving regime structures faced challenges, particularly with the sudden collapse of the regime in Tripoli.
How did the rebel movement feel about NATO’s intervention ?
Many rebels may view NATO’s role as one of hired assistance rather than genuine partnership, leading to mixed sentiments toward the alliance.
How did the rebel movement feel about the presence of foreign troops in Libya ?
The Libyan rebels were opposed to the presence of foreign troops on Libyan soil, which could complicate future intervention efforts.
Will there be a need for ground intervention in the future ?
The text speculates on the potential need for future ground interventions, potentially under a UN mandate with contributions from Arab, African, and NATO-affiliated states.
