UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. Security Council has approved a no-fly zone over Libya and authorized “all necessary measures” to protect civilians from attacks by Moammar Gadhafi’s forces.
The vote late Thursday was 10-0 with five abstentions, including Russia and China.
The United States, France and Britain pushed for speedy approval because Gadhafi’s forces are advancing toward opposition-held Benghazi. The Libyan leader vowed Thursday night to oust the rebels from their eastern stronghold.
French Prime Minister Francois Fillon said if the resolution was approved, France would support military action against Gadhafi within hours. The U.S. said it was preparing for action.
