Tue Aug 9, 2011
NATO fighter jets (file photo)
At least 85 civilians have been killed in the latest NATO airstrikes in Libya near the western city of Zlitan, a Libyan official says.
The attacks took place in the village of Majer, south of Zlitan, which is located 160 km (100 miles) east of the capital, Tripoli, late on Monday, Libyan government spokesman Mussa Ibrahim said, AFP reported.
Thirty three children, 32 women and 20 men from 12 families were killed in the "massacre," Ibrahim added.
"After the first three bombs dropped at around 11:00 p.m. (2100 GMT) on Monday, many residents of the area ran to the bombed houses to try to save their loved ones. Three more bombs struck," he further said.
The US and NATO have unleashed a punishing, UN-mandated offensive against embattled Libyan ruler Muammar Gaddafi in an alleged attempt to pressure him into giving up power.
NATO has conducted thousands of airstrikes against Libya since it assumed control of the military campaign in late March.
The airstrikes by the military alliance have killed many civilians as well as revolutionary forces that are fighting against the government troops.
Experts say the main motive behind the Western attack on Libya is the vast oil reserves of the North African country.
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