With the approval from the United Nations, the coalition forces have begun their attack against Muammar al-Qaddafi and his forces. The United States is leading attacks as more than 100 Tomahawk missles were launched toward the shores of Libya, hitting more than 20 intended targets including surface-to-air missiles, early warning sites, and key communication modes.
President Obama authorized limited military action against Libya Saturday.
“We cannot stand idly by when a tyrant tells his people there will be no mercy,” Obama said in a statement from Brazil.
The president also reiterated that the U.S. will not be deploying ground forces into Libya.
“What we are doing in necessary, it is legal, and it is right,” said British Prime Minister David Cameron. “I believe we should not stand aside while this dictator murders his own people.”
“It is now necessary to open the stores and arm all the masses with all types of weapons to defend the independence, unity and honor of Libya,” Qaddafi said in a speech broadcast on Libya state television, according to Reuters. He also warns that weapons depots are being opened to arm the Libyan people in defense.