Affectionate Nearness

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Benedict XVI is expressing concern over the escalating violence in Libya as several foreign countries attempt to enforce a ceasefire in that region. "In recent days the troubling news that has come from Libya has also stirred trepidation and fear in me," the Pontiff said today before praying the midday Angelus together with those gathered in St. Peter's Square. He added, "I follow the latest events with great apprehension."

Last month, protestors in Libya began calling for the ousting of Muammar Gaddafi, the country's leader for 42 years. The protest soon escalated into armed conflict, with Gaddafi controlling Tripoli and the rebel leaders making their headquarters in Benghazi. Faced to reports of "massacres" of the protestors and bombings of the rebel forces by Gaddafi, on Thursday the U.N. Security Council passed Resolution 1973. This resolution authorized the international community to establish a no-fly zone, and to allow for the use of "all means necessary" for the protection of Libyan civilians.

On Saturday, French military jets began to act on this resolution, destroying five tanks belonging to the Gaddafi regime. The United States and the United Kingdom also launched attacks on the Libyan military systems. The Holy Father affirmed, "I prayed especially for this to the Lord during the week of retreat" of the Roman Curia, which ended Saturday. He continued, "I pray for those who are involved in the dramatic situation in that country and I address a pressing call to the political and military leaders that they take the security of the citizens to heart and guarantee access to humanitarian aid."

Benedict XVI concluded, "I wish to assure the people of my affectionate nearness, as I ask God that peace and concord dawn for Libya and the whole region of North Africa as soon as possible."