AUSTRALIANS have been urged to flee from Libya while they still can. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade yesterday upgraded its warning for the strife-torn north African nation, with about 100 Australians known to be in the region. "If you are there and it is commercially possible and safe for you to exit, you should exit now," Foreign Affairs Minister Kevin Rudd said. "If you're thinking of travelling to that part of the world, reconsider it now. It's a difficult, dangerous and bloody place." Violent clashes yesterday intensified between anti-government protesters and government forces, with protesters fired upon. The death toll is estimated to be as high as 300. The protesters want the end of Muammar Gaddafi's 40-year rule, but the regime has said it will crush opposition with a threat of lethal force. The tensions come just weeks after the Australian Government chartered two Qantas jets to fly more than 200 Australians out of Egypt. Mr Rudd would not confirm another government charter. The diplomatic mission in Tripoli will stay in contact with the Australians in the area. Mr Rudd said he'd told DFAT to call the Libyan ambassador to register Australia's "condemnation . . . about the flagrant use of lethal force against innocent civilians". Rudd said the Middle East was overcome by a "universal cry for freedom" and that "many uncertainties lie ahead". He said the international community had a "responsibility" to stand by the people of Egypt.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Australians told to 'get out of Libya now'
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