European Parliament Urges U.N. to Back Force in Mali

Al Qaeda-linked militias have taken the north of the country

BRUSSELS, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Members of the European Parliament called on the U.N. Security Council to back an international force to regain control over northern Mali.

Foreign rebel groups and militants associated with al-Qaida seized control of northern Mali this year following a series of political upheavals. Human rights groups have accused rebels of war crimes.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton this week said Washington supports African-led efforts to develop a neutral force to help restore security in Mali.