NATO Extends Operation Unified Protector

NATO will extend operations in Libya for up to three more months, although the alliance has the option of ending Operation Unified Protector before that time if the situation on the ground stabilizes, announced NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen. “We are determined to continue our mission for as long as necessary, but ready to terminate the operation as soon as possible,” said Rasmussen Wednesday. He added, “This decision sends a clear message to the Libyan people. We will be there for as long as necessary, but not a day longer, while you take your future in your hands to ensure a safe transition to the new Libya.” The North Atlantic Security Council will continue to keep “the situation under regular review,” as operations continue, said Rasmussen. This is the second time NAC has voted to extend operations in Libya. (See also AFPS release by Lisa Daniel.)