Greek Communists protest attacks on Libya

Communist-backed groups have staged protests in Athens and Crete, include a rally on Sunday by 5,000 demonstrators in the capital.

Protesters hold a banner that reads "No to the imperialists' attack against Libya. No participation - no involvement by Greece. Down with imperialism", during a protest in Athens on Sunday. Photo: AP.

Several hundred students linked to the Communist party are rallying outside Greece’s parliament to protest government support for airstrikes against Libya by NATO allies.

Protesters burned a European Union flag before Monday’s peaceful march.

Greece has no direct involvement in the air and missile attacks on Libya that began Saturday. Still it has sent a navy frigate to the region and has offered the use of its air bases to the countries involved. The United States has also used a navy base on the Greek island of Crete to build up Libya—bound forces.

Communist—backed groups have staged protests in Athens and Crete, include a rally on Sunday by 5,000 demonstrators in the capital.