1986 United States Bombing of Libya - Gaddafi's Response

Gaddafi's Response

Gaddafi announced that he had "won a spectacular military victory over the United States" and the country was officially renamed the "Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah". However, his speech appeared devoid of passion and even the "victory" celebrations appeared unusual. The raids against the government had brought it to its the weakest point in 17 years.

Gaddafi said reconciliation between Libya and the United States is impossible so long as Reagan is in the White House. He described Reagan as "He is mad. He is foolish. He is an Israeli dog." He said he had no plans to attack the United States or U.S. targets. He told that Reagan tried to kill him by saying "Was Reagan trying to kill me? Of course. The attack was concentrated on my house and I was in my house", he also described that how he rescued his family. When asked that if he is in danger of losing power, he told "Really, these reports and writings are not true. As you can see I am fine, and there has been no change in our country."