Libya war: strike against Gaddafi

Muammar Gaddafi’s regime says Britain’s decision to diplomatically recognise Libya’s rebels is “irresponsible, illegal, and a violation of British and international law.”

All Colonel Gaddafi’s Libyan diplomats are to be expelled from the UK as Britain recognises the National Transitional Council as the “sole governmental authority” in the country.

As the Foreign Secretary, William Hague, offers the prospect of Colonel Gaddafi being allowed to stay in Libya if he steps down as leader, Anthony Tucker-Jones reports on the shifting political sands.

Despite a face-to-face meeting between US officials and Gaddafi aides, fighting continues in Libya and the two sides remain poles apart over any peaceful solution for the country.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister has backed calls to unfreeze around £2bn of Libyan cash for humanitarian aid.

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi is ready to hand over power to the country’s rebels, according to French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe. But one defence analyst dismisses the claim as “wishful thinking”.

French claims that Colonel Gaddafi is ready to step down are just internal political posturing says defence analyst Anthony Tucker-Jones.

As two offensives place Libyan rebel forces within striking distance of Gaddafi’s Tripoli stronghold, Anthony Tucker-Jones asks if they can maintain their new-found momentum.

Turkey officially recognises Libya’s anti-government rebels and promises to give them at least $200m in aid.

A senior French diplomat tells Channel 4 News a weapon drop to rebel-held areas was a legally-justified move to protect civilians, and that France won’t rule out deploying more arms in the future.

Colonel Gaddafi’s regime in Libya could be entering a final, decisive phase, with reports that the main pipeline supplying oil to Tripoli has been cut.

The International Criminal Court issues an arrest warrant for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. But whether he will face justice or not still hangs in the balance, a lawyer tells Channel 4 News.

It is estimated that the UK’s military operation in Libya will cost around £260m. Defence Secretary Liam Fox said protecting civilians is driving up the cost.