Davutoglu: "If Gaddafi attacks cilians, NATO may have to use force"

If forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi attack civilians, NATO may have to use force, said Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu yesterday. Davutoglu made the remarks at an international meeting on Libya in London, where Italy and Britain gave the message that Gaddafi may be sent into exile. But Davutoglu said that protecting the Libyan people so they can choose their own future is a higher priority than forcing Gaddafi from power. He added that NATO should be ready within days to assume command of the Libya military operations. He also hinted that Gaddafi could make the final outcome less hard on him if he implements a truce. "Of course, if there is a cease-fire it will be a test for him," said Davutoglu. "If he respects a cease-fire and stops attacking civilians, then other things should follow afterwards."