U.S., British and French forces fire missiles aimed at taking out Libya's ability to defend against a no-fly zone.

Gaddafi says "ground of war" has been opened and threatens retaliation. Obama said he is "proud" of mission. Assessment of first round of fire to begin late tonight when new day dawns in Libya.

U.S. naval forces fire more than 100 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Libyan targets. Pentagon says this only first phase of multi-phase operation. Earlier, French warplanes struck Libyan tanks on the outskirts of Benghazi. Canada, U.K., and Italy also join the operations.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy says the residents of Benghazi need international help. Secretary Clinton stresses that the United States is only a supporter, not a leader in the effort to stop Gaddafi.

President Obama issued a stern warning to Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi Friday that if he failed to stop attacking civilians, the United Nations would enforce a no-fly zone, yet reports from witnesses in Libya make it clear the fighting has not stopped.

Arms shipments and foreign intervention may be too little too late.

President Obama, British Prime Minister ponder what actions to take.

Official says Gaddafi will commit suicide before he surrenders.

Gaddafi speaks in Green Square: "If my people and the Arab people don't love Gaddafi I don't deserve to live."; Protesters take control of Brega; Opposition forces close in on Tripoli; Diplomats defect from Gaddafi regime.