In the News: Serena Williams Hospitalized; Gadhafi Warns Against U.S. Assistance

In the News: Serena Williams Hospitalized; Gadhafi Warns Against U.S. Assistance


  • Gadhafi Supporters Regain Power in Eastern Libya

Forces loyal to Libyan ruler Col. Moammar Gadhafi have gained ground against governmental opponents in the eastern part of the country, according to The Associated Press.

Reports show pro-Gadhafi fighters deployed air strikes on the rebel-seized city of Ajdabiya and gained control over Brega, an oil-exporting terminal on the coast of Libya. The recent violence is causing a growing concern amongst global entities–from the United Nations refugee agency to the United States–however, Gadhafi has made it clear no external forces will be entering the state. The Libyan leader warns that thousands of Libyans will die if the United States or NATO forces choose to step in.

“We will not accept an intervention like that of the Italians that lasted decades,” said Col. Gadhafi, referencing Italy’s colonial rule in the beginning of the 20th Century. “We will fight until the last man and woman.”

On Tuesday, the U.S. ordered two warships–the USS Ponce and the USS Kearsarge–along with 800 Marines, not counting the 400 U.S.-based Marines being airlifted to meet the troops, deployed to the area. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said the aid will be available for evacuations and other humanitarian efforts.

  • Serena Williams Rushed Into Emergency Surgery

Tennis superstar Serena Williams underwent emergency surgery Monday after suffering a pulmonary embolism–a blood clot in her lungs, her rep told People.

The 29-year-old was spotted at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center just days before her red carpet cameo at Sunday’s Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party.

“Monday Serena Williams underwent emergency treatment at Cedars for a hematoma she suffered as a result of treatment for a more critical situation,” said Nicole Chabot, Williams’ representative. Williams discovered she suffered from a pulmonary embolism upon her return to L.A. after being treated for her on-going foot injury.

Chabot confirms that doctors are monitoring her condition to prevent additional complications.

 


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