The UN Security Council authorized again the use of force against a developing country, by approving a foreign military intervention against Libya.

The Council passed a resolution co-sponsored by France, Britain, the United States and Lebanon, by 10 votes and five abstentions, giving the green light to impose a no-fly zone over Libya.

The resolution also calls for applying “all necessary measures”, the code for military action against the forces and government of Muammar Gaddafi. Russia and China, two members with veto power in the UNSC, abstained in the vote, just like Germany, thus paving the way for the implementation of the resolution.

Gaddafi had earlier announced his forces would move shortly into Benghazi, the last stronghold of the armed insubordination, and called on his followers in that eastern city to help quash the revolt.

He also warned Western nations his forces would retaliate in case the country is attacked.