Continued access to Libyan oil is certainly one factor in this drama but as others have pointed out there was no problem with Western access to Libyan oil before the protests and armed insurrection. In fact access to oil in the short run is jeopardized by UN/NATO intervention, at least as long as there is a stalemate. The market price for Libyan oil will not change, regardless of who governs Libya, as that is set by the world oil market (and the oil speculators).

It's possible that foreign oil companies will get a better deal afterwards from a new government. Or not.

It's also possible that a greater share of the oil revenue will be channeled to economic development projects and social programs rather than lining the pockets of Gadhafi and his family. Or not.

The Rebels appear to be in control of Brega again this morning. So it goes.

Charley Noble