Libya halts military action

The Libyan government has announced an immediate ceasefire in its offensive against rebels who have seized large areas of the country.



The announcement comes as a coalition of Western and Arab nations prepares for air strikes against Libyan forces.



Rebels say government forces had been bombarding the western city of Misrata.



There are claims this has continued despite the ceasefire announcement.



Military action short of an occupation was sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council on Thursday evening.



Libyan Foreign Minister Mussa Kussa said his country was obliged to accept the UN resolution and to observe the air exclusion zone that had been agreed.