Obama Defends U.S. Action in Libya

U.S. President Barack Obama defended military operations against Libya leader Muamar Al-Qaddafi’s regime, saying the world had to act before the fighting brought huge civilian causalities. In a televised address to the nation Monday night, Obama said no-fly zone operations had halted Al-Qaddafi’s advance and would “hasten the day” when he steps down. Obama stressed, however, that the U.S. was not seeking to topple Al-Qaddafi militarily. Obama spoke on the eve of a 35-nation conference in London to tackle the turmoil in the oil-exporting country and weigh political options for ending Al-Qaddafi’s 41-year rule.  The president has been at pains to defend the mission at home while sorting out difference as to its methods and goals among his allies.