Libyan rebels reject al-Qaeda label

02/04/11 05:43 CET

world news

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The Libyan rebels fighting to overthrow the Gaddafi regime are keen to dispel suggestions that there is an al-Qaeda presence amongst them.

Earlier this week, NATO commander and US Admiral James Stavridis said there were “flickers” of intelligence linking them with the terrorist group. Colonel Gaddafi has also accused them of connections with extremists in an attempt to dissuade western support for their cause.

Our correspondent Mustafa Bag reported from Benghazi’s Liberation Square.

More reports from our correspondent:

01.04 – Retreating rebels play waiting game in the desert
01.04 – Libyan rebels list their terms for ceasefire
31.03 – euronews on the run with Libya’s rebel forces
30.03 – A night in the desert with the Libyan rebels

He said: “One of the city’s top clerics led Friday prayers, telling the crowd the people here are not members of al-Qaeda.”

After the service, a number of worshippers waved French and British flags to thank them for their attacks on Gaddafi.

More about: Armed conflicts, Benghazi, Ceasefire, Libya

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