Libya ‘to halt military action’

Libya’s government is declaring an immediate ceasefire, hours after a UN Security Council resolution backed a no-fly zone over the country.

Libyan Foreign Minister Mussa Kussa said the ceasefire was intended “to protect civilians”.

The UN resolution supported “all necessary measures” to protect civilians, short of an occupation.

Western powers had been discussing how to enforce the no-fly zone.

Before the announcement of the ceasefire, fighting between troops loyal to Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi and rebel forces was reported to be continuing.

BBC