Italian Interior Minister says US military action in Libya would unleash Third World War

By Martin Barillas, Energy Publisher

Roberto Maroni, Italy's Minister of Interior, said that "military intervention in Libya would mean a Third World War," apparently alluding to reports of posturing by the the United States, Great Britain, and NATO. Interviewed by the La Padania newspaper, Maroni spoke in the March 8 report on policy towards the simmering rebellions in the Maghreb region, including Libya and Tunisia. Said the minister, "A strong military action, in particular on the part of the US, would do nothing more than coalesce the other Arab states and the consequences would be devastating."

Maroni insisted that the best course of action would be a "sort of Marshall Plan in which Europe would play an important part" in concert with European diplomatic efforts. Contemplated within Maroni's portfolio of duties is the regulation of immigration, including the granting of asylum.

Interior Minister Maroni also spoke to the problem Italy is facing in the arrival of refugees from Tunisia, some of whom are landing on the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa, which is closer to Africa than to Europe. More than 1,300 refugees have arrived in less than three days. "We are the edge, yes, but with the risk of sinking. We cannot cope alone. He appeared to favor addressing the refugee problem at its source on the African continent. He added that if Tunisia is not able to stem the tide of refugees, "we will take care of it ourselves."

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