The Libyan Rebels, who are they?

[lived666]

Who are the Libyan Rebels?
Not that I shed a tear for Gaddafi, but this does not look like a civil uprising or people power as in Egypt.
First where did all the weapons come from? According to the news, there have been a few defects from the military, but it doesn't explain how they are very well armed and in such a short period of time, and then to be able to withstand attacks by well trained Libyan armed forces - these can't be untrained civillians, so who are they?

 

[Albereth]

Well trained Libyans? Really?

AFAIK they (the rebels) got access to armouries.

 

[FoXtroT]

They took over Bengahzi which has a huge military base with armouries etc. plus the defecting soldiors would also have helped. The fact that they are withstanding goverment forces is because alot of the goverment forces are made up by militia not just army units.

 

[Palimino]

Who are the Libyan Rebels?
Not that I shed a tear for Gaddafi, but this does not look like a civil uprising or people power as in Egypt.
First where did all the weapons come from? According to the news, there have been a few defects from the military, but it doesn't explain how they are very well armed and in such a short period of time, and then to be able to withstand attacks by well trained Libyan armed forces - these can't be untrained civillians, so who are they?

‘Well trained Libyan armed forces’? I doubt it very much. The elite forces close to Gadaffi – maybe. The normal Libyan cannon fodder – no.

I am pretty sure that there is outside interference (supplying weapons) for oil, hegemony or influence. They are (coincidently, I’m sure) intent on aiding the rebels and getting rid of Gadaffi. A popular desire. The Libyan people must just watch-out for the times when dues are to be paid for ‘favours’ granted in their time of need. There are no ‘free lunches’. The time will come to pay the piper.