Starvation May Face Libyans If Conflict Drags On

NATO has intensified its airstrikes on the capital of Libya in the hopes of ending Moammar Gadhafi's rule. President Obama said today, "Ultimately this is going to be a slow, steady process in which we're able to wear down the regime forces."

Time though is not on the side of the people. The conflict between the long-time dictator and rebels is causing a humanitarian nightmare. Aid groups are cut off from parts of the country. There is fear starvation may take hold in these areas if the conflict continues.

Boris Michel of the International Committee of the Red Cross says, "As long as the conflict in Libya continues, the outlook for the coming months is dire, and living conditions may further deteriorate for a large percentage of the population."

Josette Sheeran, the director of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said, "Fighting is blocking access to the Western Mountains of Libya where the World Food Programme believes food needs could be immense. I am increasingly concerned about the humanitarian situation and access to food for people trapped by the violence in this area." Sheeran is calling for a ceasefire to allow aid groups to enter.

Voice of America is reporting that the President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, plans to travel to Libya in a bid to try to help resolve the conflict.

Both the Red Cross and the World Food Programme are appealing for funding. At last report WFP was not even half funded for its relief mission. The pipeline of supplies has to be maintained so relief can be moved in quickly once access is opened. Even when the fighting does stop, it will be some time before regular food and other supply chains can be restored.