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Many Gaddafi soldiers defect to Libyan rebels

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With the ongoing conflict in Libya, some soldiers have defected to the rebels. Moreover, they're resolute in their decision. Our corespondent Stephanie Freid examines why they've changed their minds.

As Libya heads into a fifth month of conflict, some on the frontlines have decided to give up.

In an announcement this week, twenty five of Muammar Gaddafi's military men said they are abandoning their posts.

Military Defector, said, "We formally announce that we are offering our services to the national transitional council of Libya."

This is the first defection of its kind since conflict arose here in February.

The men said they want a unified Libya, free from the current struggle.

But they didn’t want to be part of the fight.They say there are more men like them.

Mohammed Ahmed Saleh, Defector, said, "There are 55 officers here in Benghazi but only four or five can show their faces because of safety for their families. "

They talked about their instructions.

Mohammed Ahmed Saleh, Defector, said, "There is a continuous repetition of fighting crusaders and NATO – of fighting a holy war and that it's an honor to die."

As foreign diplomatic support for rebel forces continues, these military men predict that remote southwest areas of Libya remain in dispute.

Mohammed Ahmed Saleh, Defector, said, "Most of the Gaddafi forces are in the Sabah area and have a stranglehold there. This is the doorway for mercenaries to come in."

These men are resolute in their decision to defect. But other looming issues weigh heavily for the opposition.

Namely, a cash flow that is trickling and erred NATO campaigns causing civilian casualties on the Western front are leading to mistrust and doubt.

 

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