The United Nations has said it may send an additional 1,000 to 2,000 peacekeepers to the Ivory Coast as two candidates work to resolve a disputed presidential election.

The incumbent Christian president Laurent Gbagbo and his Muslim opponent, Alassane Ouatarra, have both taken the oath of office. Many fear that the country is on the verge of a civil war.

In an interview broadcast on Ivorian National Television, CBN News Sr. International Correspondent Gary Lane spoke to Laurent Gbagbo about the political stalemate.

Gbagbo talked about his Christian faith. He also said he agreed to enter into negotiations without preconditions, but his opponent wouldn't agree to any talks. Click play to watch the interview.

Dr. Clifton Clarke, an associate professor of global missions at Regent University and an expert on Africa, also shared his insight on the conflict on CBN News Channel's Midday News, Jan. 6. Click here for his comments.