Qaddafi Plays Obama, Violates Ceasefire

The U.S. ambassador to the U.N. accused Col. Muammar al-Qaddafi on Friday of violating a Security Council resolution that demanded he cease fire against rebels -- an accusation that comes on the heels of President Obama warning the Libyan leader of the consequences of failing to comply.

In an interview with CNN, Ambassador Susan Rice said Qaddafi faced "swift and sure consequences including military action." It wasn't immediately clear if the U.N. was preparing to take action.

Earlier Friday, Obama made his first comments about the crisis in Libya since the U.N. Security Council voted late Thursday to authorize a no-fly zone and "all necessary measures" to protect the Libyan people from Qaddafi's bloody crackdown on rebels.

Obama said Qaddafi must implement a cease-fire, stop his troops from advancing on rebel strongholds and allow humanitarian assistance to reach Libya.

"Let me be clear, these terms are not negotiable," he said in a brief appearance at the White House. "If Qaddafi does not comply with the resolution, the international community will impose consequences and the resolution will be enforced through military action."

France, Britain, and Arab states have joined the U.S. and are threatening military actions if Qaddafi does not comply with demands to reconnect electricity and water in Libya communities.

"Humanitarian assistance must be allowed to reach the people of Libya. These terms are not negotiable. If Qaddafi does not comply with the resolution, the international community will impose consequences, and this resolution will be enforced through military action," the U.S., France, Britain, and Arab states said in a joint statement.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy also said in a statement that Qaddafi forces should pull out of Misrata, Zawiya, and Ajdabiya, Reuters reports.

Despite the warnings and a state declared cease-fire, pro-Qaddafi forces are advancing quickly towards Benghazi, Al-Jazeera reports.

A correspondent for Al-Jazeera reported that Qaddafi's troops are facing off against rebel forces in the towns of Al-Magroun and Slouq, about 30 miles from Benghazi.