World leaders launch military action in Libya

PARIS: French jet fighters swooped down on the heart of the insurgency in Libya on Saturday that senior officials of the United States, Europe and the Arab world launched a risky military operation to protect civilians against attacks by the forces Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Mirage and Rafale jets are flying over Benghazi and could hit tanks Gaddafi later Saturday, a senior French official told The Associated Press.

The official said the jets are flying over the stronghold of the opposition and its environs. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the operation.

Libyan government troops stormed the forces Benghazi on Saturday, apparently ignoring a cease-fire proclaimed. The incursion in the cities of Benghazi and other forces by Gaddafi could significantly complicate any international intervention, allowing troops to mingle with the population - making air strikes against them difficult.

The United States, Great Britain, France and 19 other participants at an emergency summit in Paris on Saturday "agreed to implement all necessary means, including the army" to enforce a Board Gaddafi Security resolution Thursday demanding a cease-fire, French President Nicolas Sarkozy said.

"Consistent with our partners, our air forces will oppose any aggression by aircraft Colonel Gaddafi cons the people of Benghazi. Already, our aircraft are to prevent air attacks against the city. Already, other French planes are ready to intervene against tanks that threaten unarmed civilians, "Sarkozy said in a brief statement.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was also at the summit on Saturday and was scheduled to speak later Saturday.

British Prime Minister David Cameron said after the summit: "The time has come for action, are urgently needed."