In 1992, the two Western powers prevailed on the Security Council to clamp an air embargo and sanctions on Libya. Further erosion came when the OAU decided to disregard the ban if the sanctions are not lifted by September. Other international blocs, including the Arab League and the OIC, also opposed the continuation of the sanctions. In an effort to avoid further loss of face, the US and Britain began to speak of a possible trial in the Netherlands. Defense for the two Libyan suspects has agreed in principle, which he could not have done without a green light from Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Some difficulties remain.
For instance, the Libyan lawyer says he would settle for a Scottish presiding judge but the panel should include judges from other countries. Whatever the outcome of the present diplomatic exchanges on the matter, the fact remains that the high and mighty have been forced to relent under the pressure of world opinion. We should take note. It is most feared that, as long as anarchy prevails over the world order with the collapse a few years ago of the Soviet Union, and with the US monopolizing world leadership at present the dream of peace in the Middle East will remain as far-fetched in the years to come as it is today. The outlines of US strategy in the Middle East were developed as far back in time as the 1950s.