Libya rebels enter Tripoli, tip scales against Gaddafi

Observing that the momentum against Gaddafi regime has reached a tipping point and that Tripoli is slipping from the grasp of a tyrant, US President Barack Obama today said the Libyan leader needs to acknowledge the reality that he no longer controls the country and should immediately relinquish power.

"Tonight, the momentum against the Gaddafi regime has reached a tipping point. Tripoli is slipping from the grasp of a tyrant. The Gaddafi regime is showing signs of collapsing. The people of Libya are showing that the universal pursuit of dignity and freedom is far stronger than the iron fist of a dictator," Obama said in a statement today.

 

Obama said the surest way for the bloodshed to end is simple: Muammar Gaddafi and his regime need to recognise that their rule has come to an end.

"Gaddafi needs to acknowledge the reality that he no longer controls Libya. He needs to relinquish power once and for all," he said.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Josh Earnest said since this morning, Obama had received regular updates from his national security aides on Libya.

At about 9 pm local time, Obama had a conference call with his top national security aides including National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen.

"The President asked that he continue to be updated as necessary and is scheduled to be briefed on this topic again tomorrow morning," Earnest said.

Obama said the US has recognised the Transitional National Council as the legitimate governing authority in Libya, Obama said.

At this pivotal and historic time, the TNC should continue to demonstrate the leadership that is necessary to steer the country through a transition by respecting the rights of the people of Libya, avoiding civilian casualties, protecting the institutions of the Libyan state, and pursuing a transition to democracy that is just and inclusive for all of the people of Libya, he added.

"A season of conflict must lead to one of peace," he said.

Obama said the future of Libya is now in the hands of the Libyan people.

"Going forward, the United States will continue to stay in close coordination with the TNC. We will continue to insist that the basic rights of the Libyan people are respected," he said.

"And we will continue to work with our allies and partners in the international community to protect the people of Libya, and to support a peaceful transition to democracy," Obama said.