New York - The United Nations Security Council on Thursday cleared the way for air strikes to halt Muammar Gaddafi’s offensive against embattled rebel forces in Libya, with the first bombing raids possible within hours.
It approved a resolution permitting “all necessary measures” to impose a no-fly zone, protect civilian areas and impose a ceasefire on Gaddafi’s military.
The vote passed 10-0 with five abstentions in the 15-member council. Permanent members China and Russia were among those abstaining, but did not use their veto power.
Diplomats have indicated that air strikes from a coalition led by Britain, France and the United States could be imminent as Gaddafi’s troops close in on the rebel stronghold of Benghazi. However, the resolution rules out sending foreign ground troops.
The Libyan leader said earlier on Thursday he would take the town and “chase the traitors”.
Addressing the Security Council, French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe said the world had to act to support Libya, following peaceful revolts against authoritarian leaders across the Arab world.
“The world is living one of its great revolutions that changes the course of history. In North Africa, the Persian Gulf, the Arab people are calling to breathe democracy,” he said.
“In Libya, alas, for a number of weeks the people's will has been shot down to its feet by Colonel Gaddafi.”
“We are ready and willing to act together, including with Arab members. We have very little time left. It is a matter of days. Perhaps it is a matter of hours,” Juppe said. “We should not arrive too late.” - AFP