Libya no-fly zone gathering pace

According to reports, both countries are drafting a UN resolution for air exclusion zone, which is due to be debated by NATO defence minister in two days’ time.

The resolution follows fresh air strikes on rebel forces as the two sides continue to battle for key towns on the strategically important coast. A warplane fired rockets near a checkpoint on the eastern outskirts of rebel-held oil town Ras Lanuf, 400 miles east of the capital Tripoli.

Opposition forces in the area have come under fire from rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns.

The idea of a no-fly zone has already been backed by Gulf states, but other countries are divided on the issue.

"We are working closely with partners on a contingency basis 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," British Foreign Secretary William Hague said.

Meanwhile, Nato has launched 24-hour surveillance of Libya with reconnaissance aircraft, said the US ambassador to Nato, Ivo Daalder.