U.N. helicopters attack Gbagbo camp in Ivory Coast

French and United Nation military forces in Ivory Coast have been using Helicopters to attack the presidential compound in the main city Abidjan. The compound is the base of Laurent Gbagbo who had refused to give up power since election last year. UN Attack Helicopters fire missiles at heavy armament in the pro-gbagbo military compound aim at destroying weapons which forces loyal to the incumbent president are using against Civilians and UN personnel.

Noting the decision to attack was taken in light of the UN's mandate to protect civilians. French forces have also launch attacks in support of the UN operation. This marks an escalation for the UN's mission in Ivory Coast; it has been guarding Mr. Gbagbo's rival Alassane Ouattara after declaring him the winner of disputed presidential election in December. But it has come under increasing pressure from the Security Council to take more aggressive action to protect civilians.