The U.S. and other world leaders enforced a no-fly zone and other measures in Libya to deter Moammar Gadhafi and his forces from capturing key cities in the almost month long civil war. The authorization for military action came Thursday evening. The U.N. Security Council approved a no-fly zone and all necessary measures to protect Libyan civilians from pro-Gadhafi forces. The vote was 10-0, with five abstentions, including Russia, China, and NATO member Germany. Later, Libya announced it was halting all military operations. But Libya's ambassador to the U.S., who no longer supports Gadhafi, voiced serious doubts. It was unclear when military action might begin but the British began deploying typhoon and tornado attack aircraft to the Mediterranean region and Italy said it would allow its air bases to be used. The exact U.S. role remained unclear, but President Obama stressed it would not include ground troops. Several American warships were already in the area, including an amphibious assault ship, plus 400 U.S. Marines and dozens of helicopters. Quotes "Let me be clear: These terms are not negotiable. These terms are not subject to negotiation. If Gadhafi does not comply with the resolution, the international community will impose consequences, and the resolution will be enforced through military action." President Barack Obama "We have to be very careful. This is a trick. This man, he is welcoming the resolution, but in the same time, he is invading Misrata. He is killing the people. He's moving his -- his armies from -- to strategic points. Please, you have to be very careful with this." Ali Sueliman Aujali, Libyan ambassador to the United States Warm Up Questions 1.What is a civil war? 2.What is a cease fire? 3.What is the role of the United Nations? Discussion Questions 1.Why do you think foreign leaders have decided to use military force to attempt to stop Moammar Gadhafi and his forces? 2.What do you think the role of the United Nations Security Council should be in handling international human rights violations? 3.Discuss what incidences should be considered crimes against humanity. Additional Resources Video transcript Download this Video