UK, France spearhead drive for Libya no-fly zone - Reuters Africa

By Mohammed Abbas

RAS LANUF, Libya (Reuters) - Britain and France spearheaded a drive at the United Nations for a no-fly zone over Libya after Muammar Gaddafi's warplanes attacked rebels, while aid officials said a million people were in need.

Civilians were surrounded by forces loyal to Gaddafi in two western towns, Misrata and Zawiyah, and in the east aircraft launched strikes on the rebel-held oil terminal town of Ras Lanuf.

Al Jazeera television said rebels had rejected an offer by Gaddafi to hold a meeting of parliament to work out a deal under which he would step down.

U.N. aid coordinator Valerie Amos said more than a million people fleeing or inside the country needed humanitarian aid.

"Humanitarian organisations need urgent access now," she said. "People are injured and dying and need help immediately."

The United Nations appealed for $160 million (98 million pounds) to fund an operation over the next three months to prepare shelter, food and medicines.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said on Monday London was working closely with its partners "on elements of a resolution on a no-fly zone, making clear the need for regional support, a clear trigger for such a resolution and an appropriate legal basis."

A French source said France was also working with its U.N. partners on a no-fly zone resolution. Gulf states called for a no-fly zone and an urgent Arab League meeting.   Continued...