Rasmussen: Nato needs clear legal basis for Libya operation

Nato Sec Gen Anders Fogh Rasmussen has said his organisation "needs a clear legal basis" for any operation in Libya, as fighting continues between Col Gaddafi loyalists and opposition rebels.

Although Nato has so far ruled out air strikes and a no-fly zone, Mr Rasmussen said he could not imagine the international community would "stand idly by" if Col Gaddafi continued attacking civilians.

Nato defence ministers met to discuss military options in the Libyan conflict, which has raged since mid-February when opponents to Col Gaddafi's 41-year rule seized many towns in eastern Libya.