The growing clamour for intervention

In the last two days, Nato and European leaders have declared that Gaddafi must go, but both have baulked at taking unilateral action. Their reticence has sparked a response from those in favour of intervention.

Speaking in Brussels today, David Cameron said that situation on the ground may be getting worse and that Europe and the West in general “must be ready to act if the situation requires it”. Liberal interventionist Bill Clinton went further. Speaking at the Women in the World summit, he said:

“I wouldn’t do it if they [the rebels] hadn’t asked… [But] it’s not a fair fight. They’re being killed by mercenaries. I think we should support them… We have the planes to make an appropriate contribution to this.”

The former President’s view is at variance with that of Secretary of State Clinton. It’s surprising how cautious the Obama administration has been during this crisis, especially as the rebels are pleading for intervention. However, as the European Union has again proved indecisive on the international stage (despite the fact of Baroness Ashton and, more pertinently, her staff), the White House still holds the casting vote. The United Nations has an important role to play; but, with a resolution looking unlikely, President Obama will determine Libya’s immediate future.