Obama calls for allies to respond to Libya

US President Barack Obama has sought consensus from the leaders of the UK, France and Italy as international efforts to respond to the crisis in Libya gather pace.



Obama outlined a range of possible measures, including plans for humanitarian assistance.



Earlier, the White House said all options were on the table, including sanctions.

It said the military would present its own proposals to Obama.



Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi meanwhile blamed the uprising on al-Qaeda.



Speaking on state television, he repeated claims that hallucinogenic drugs had been given to young people to incite them to revolt.



Fierce fighting has been reported in towns close to Tripoli, as forces loyal to him try to regain control of areas seized by the opposition.