Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.President Barack Obama said the US is imposing unilateral sanctions on Libya because continued violence and unrest there poses an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to America's national security and foreign policy.
He said a series of financial sanctions he formalised target the government of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi while protecting the Libyan people's assets.
The penalties name Mr Gaddafi and several family members.
Mr Obama acted after hundreds of Americans were safely evacuated from Libya following days of bloodshed across the country.
Militias loyal to Mr Gaddafi have been firing on protesters who have been demanding the Libyan leader's ousting.
White House spokesman Jay Carney said earlier that the US would impose unilateral sanctions and continue to work with its European partners on additional punishments that could be taken.
Earlier, a US official said the United States has closed its embassy in Libya's capital after evacuating all personnel on a ferry and a chartered plane.
The Tripoli embassy's operations were suspended because of the deteriorating security situation, the official said.
The last embassy staff departed on a chartered flight at 6.49pm (UK time) on Friday.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments