Gadhafi says bin Laden is behind uprising as U.N. condemns violence in Libya

As the violence in Libya continues, longtime leader Moammar Gadhafi says al-Qaida chief Osama bin Laden is behind the uprising in his country.

Gadhafi spoke on state television on Thursday. He accused al-Qaida of giving young Libyans hallucinogenic pills in their coffee to get them to revolt.

Gadhafi made his comments the same day the United Nations called for a peaceful transition of power.

Opposition forces have claimed victory in much of the country and Gadhafi’s grip on Libya, which he has led for nearly 40 years, is seen as slipping.

Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has asked the international community to secure a prompt and peaceful transition. At the same time, he is also seeking punishment for those involved in bloodshed in the crackdown on protesters.

French Defence Minister Alain Juppe said he hopes “Gadhafi is in his final moments as chief of state,” adding he is pushing for sanctions against Gadhafi’s regime.

The French Foreign Ministry says the fierce crackdown “may constitute crimes against humanity.”

Meanwhile, a charter flight with Canadians on board that had been scheduled to leave Libya has been ancelled due to insurance concerns.

The Opposition is attacking the Harper government over Ottawa’s response, saying many countries have already evacuated citizens from Libya.

With files from The Associated Press and The Canadian Press.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today