The situation in Ivory Coast continues to deteriorate as embattled leader Laurent Gbagbo struggles to hold on to power.   Gbagbo remained holed up in a bunker inside the presidential residence Thursday, protected by 200 troops. 

A French defense minister on the ground in Ivory Coast estimates there are only 1,000 pro-Gbagbo troops remaining in the country’s largest city Abidjan, including the 200 guarding Gbagbo’s residence.  Gbagbo’s forces were able to repel an attack by those loyal to Alassane Ouattara, who defeated Gbagbo in November’s presidential election, on Wednesday. 

A new attack by the pro-Ouattara forces is thought to be imminent.  Ouattara has given his troops an order to capture, not kill, Gbagbo.

There were reports earlier in the week that Gbagbo was negotiating his departure from the country, a claim he has denied.  It is possible that Gbagbo will face international prosecution for crimes against humanity as a result of attacks perpetrated against civilians since the November election though no charges have been filed as of yet by the International Criminal Court.

Late Wednesday night French troops rescued the Japanese ambassador after his home was stormed by Gbagbo’s troops.  Israel has also asked France to assist in the evacuation of Israeli diplomats from the city.

The fierce fighting in and around Abidjan is taking its toll on residents.  It is not known how many, if any, have been killed or wounded as a result of the recent battles because humanitarian workers have not been able to gain access.  Members of the International Committee of the Red Cross and United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs report being shot at while trying to reach the area.

 

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