Libya: bishop reports intense bombing

Archbishop Giovanni Martinelli

The bombing of Tripoli is becoming more intense and alarming, Mgr Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli reported yesterday. He said: "This morning, around 11, I was in the middle of a meeting with about ten journalists when 4-5 bombs exploded at close range. The hotel in downtown Tripoli, where we were, is close to the target of the bombing. We all rushed to see what had happened. I do not know the details, but it is likely they hit the whole complex of Bab-Al Ziziya (Gaddafi's residence), where air strikes appear to be concentrated".

"Already this morning at 5 there was heavy bombing. The bombings are becoming more aggressive and intense".

The Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli added that "the meeting with the international press was to try to understand what the situation is. No one could hide their concern over what could happen in Tripoli in the coming days."

"I do not know what will happen, but anything is possible. The situation is not calm."

Bishop Martinelli said he was hoping for a breakthrough on the diplomatic front.

Source: Fides