Nato to launch embargo action against Libya

Alliance warships in the Mediterranean, including two Royal Navy frigates, will, if necessary, stop vessels suspected of carrying arms or mercenaries to Libya.

Prime Minister David Cameron and US President Barack Obama held telephone talks on the crisis last night and both have called for Nato to play a key role – but some alliance members such as France and Turkey have expressed doubts.

The political wrangling came after officials confirmed the loss of a US fighter jet which crash- landed during allied operations in the country. The US F-15 fighter came down close to the rebel stronghold of Benghazi after apparently experiencing mechanical failure. Both pilots ejected safely and were later picked up by a US helicopter.

Armed Forces Minister Nick Harvey yesterday hinted British ground troops could be deployed, warning: “I don’t think we would at this stage rule anything in or rule anything out.”

Mr Harvey also acknowledged Libya could be facing a prolonged stalemate, rebel forces still securing the east of the country but unable to break Colonel Muammar Gaddafi’s stranglehold on the capital, Tripoli.

The United Nations resolution does not provide for the removal of the dictator, who has repeatedly insisted he will not give up power, and allied governments were forced to deny earlier this week military actions were targeting him.

Last night there was heavy anti-aircraft fire over the skies of the Tripoli with several loud explosions after nightfall. The source of the explosions was not clear but it appeared to signal a fourth night of allied air operations.