Obama condemns crackdown in Libya

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Mr Obama said the US strongly supported the universal rights of the Libyan people

US President Barack Obama has said the violent crackdown by the Libyan authorities on peaceful protesters is “outrageous and unacceptable”.

Mr Obama said the world had to speak with “one voice”, and that the US was drawing up a range of options for action in consultation with its allies.

The Libyan government would be held accountable for its actions, he added.

His comments came as Muammar Gaddafi battled to keep control of western Libya, including the capital, Tripoli.

Opposition protesters – supported by many defecting government troops – have consolidated their control of the east of the country.

Residents of Tripoli have said they are too frightened to venture out, because of fears that pro-government forces will shoot them on sight.

The International Federation for Human Rights says at least 700 people have died in Libya since the uprising began.

Thousands of foreigners are still trying to flee Libya through ports, airports and the Tunisian and Egyptian borders.